•I- 


L  _&!  a1 


-:  B  Y    H.    M.    HOL  M'E  S  .  > 


KVITV  lift  is  a  l>ook — Experiences  iir<-  l«-iives. 


"As  Hire  iinsM'iTi-tli  to  face  in  water,  so  tin-  heart  of  man  to  man 


CAMBRIDGE.  ILLS.: 

B.  W.  SEATON,  PRINTER.  CHIEF  OFFICE. 

1883. 


» 
*r 


Entered  according-  to  Act  of  Congress,  in  the  year  1883,  by 

MRS.  NELLIE  M.  HOLMES, 
In  the  Office  of  the  Librarian  of  Congress,  at  Washington 

TiajLU-^ 

(tou 


To 

THE  BELOVED 

DOMESTIC     fiKOri'— MY 

III  SI'.AXD,      AM)    Till:     YOfTin-TL 

Font.  \VIIOSK  LIGHTEST  PHAISKOK  CKNSI-KK, 

l'KC»Il»TS    OK    CHKCKS    .MY    HISIN(i    INSP1- 

KATION— WHOSE  I.OVK  ISMORETHAX 

I  A.MK—  1  DEIHCATKTHKSK  KI.TT- 

TKia.\(;  I,KAFI.I:TS. 


,t. 

2130022 


-t- 


A    M'<-i_.- -41      Concerning  one  Asleep C'4-2 

A  Spring  Experience 46      l)i.  they  miss  me  at  School ': ;>_! 

Abviio-     «3      Day-break   185 

A  world  wide  circle  .if  Pray.-r ...   67      Echoes -10 

An   Experi'-uee 72      Eveninst '.155 

A  Tribute T'.i  "Example  is  better  than  precept..  103 

Autumn M      Etchings  on  \V,,od 237 

A  Leaf  i,f  Lit  • ft)       Follow    Me 51 

lly  Vine U4      Fir-t  Purity— then  Peace 160 

An  Ilevo'ir 120  Fifteenth  Wedding  Anniversary.  .2ul 

A  Tok>-n      127  Golden  Wedding  Anniversary 

An  Emblem 135     Gone  Home 89 

••And  they  shall  I..-  one  nY-<ir 137      Gold-lined  144 

-rs'  Portrait 1711  "Go,  work  to-day  in  my  vineyard''.  151 

A  Jiitu-  Bu.)iift 1»7      Gossamer ". 199 

August  5th 189      Good   Resolutions 21t> 

A  liiihr  fancy 214  "}l»  hath  made  every  thing  beauti- 

A  Plea  for  the  Bojra ful  in  its  season" Iti 

A  S-.nvenir   ' --'^7       H..m-  Cir-d -'A 

An  Epis.«l.. 22S  -lit-  that  hath  friends  must  show 

A  Broken  Chonl. 240      Hearth  and  Home 

Are  there  not  Persons -24.-  himself  friendly'' 12^ 

Album  Notes £5n      Heartsease 243 

Brother  John  at  Twenty-one.   ..     3s      Invocation 5 

" 4".  Inscribed  on  a  beautiful    picture 

Bereft,  but  not  forsaken 55  of  a   fair  girl    with   harp   in 

Balm  of  Gil.?ad B8  hand 24 

Beauty  for  Ashes -&1  "I    will    not   leaTe  you   comfort- 
But  not  to  me  returns. i33                         100 

Baby's  Acknowledgement 2-<">  I  wi!>h  you  a  Happy  New  Year. .  A'fZ 

Contrast .? K  "In  hope  of  a  glorious  immortali- 

I,T  tii"  Lilies'" 54  ty" 105 

Con  Amore 80     "It  is  well  with  the  child" 117 

Chalice 139     If  and  If 136 

Clove-apple ...   14">      I  wish  thee  joy  '.' 171 

Crowned .' 149      Impromptu 178 

Chrysalis I'.n      Interlude 180 

Col  Ellsworth 1C-2      Invitation 188 

Congratulatory 225  "In  everything  giving  thanks''. ..197 

Chastened...                                  ...236  In  Memoriam   ..                          ...263 


Katie 143      Susie 1* 

Lessons  of  the  Rain 19      Snow Ins 

Lilliiin 29      Spirit  vigor i2.". 

I, i iii's  accompanying  a  child's  da-  Bunset,  August  22nd 129 

guerreotvpe l:i  "Sin-    j;..eth  to    tin-  grave    to  weep 

I.' >" .mul  (lain ti'i  there".   ...    134 

Little  Nora (io      Slimmer     174 

Lulu 82     September  18th,  1872 1 '.':', 

Little  Rosa ...98      Sleeping 204 

Little  Nellie 101      Soli}:  of  the  Lilies ••!("• 

Looking  Forward ...   112      Tlie  Unexpected  (inot li" 

Louisa 120      The  Robin's  Plea 6 

Lift  un  your  eyes   172      To  my   Husband    27 

My  Eighteenth  Birthday 9      The  Laborer 33 

Mother,  dear  .Mother,  kiss  me 14  "Through  Nature  up  to  Nature's 

March 31  God" 7:; 

Motherless 70      "Then-  is  a  time  to  die'' 

Memories 91      To  my  friend  Eli/a         92 

Musings 115      Tryst 97 

Moss  hy  the  v.-ayside 14U  "They     .shall    walk     with     me    in 

May 147  white" lull 

Morning 157      To  C 119 

"Memento  Mori" 175  The  memory  of  the  ju-t  is  Messed.  .1-22 

My  Princess 241      To  F  and  M 130 

Now  and  Then <;o      To  tlie  four  Motherles>  ones 131 

Oh  !  call  me  Nellie 25      "The  silver  curd  is  loosed" 140 

Our  Geologist :,x      Tin- great  rebellion.     1860 i:>s 

OH  a  Gift  of  Flowers 98      To  One  in  Camp ir.S 

Orange  Blossoms ion      To  Ida isl 

Ode  to   1850 Id!)      To  Lillian 1'Jl 

Our  Brother 141  "The  steps  of  faith  fall  on  the  void 

Opportunity ]?!)  and  find  tin-  rorks  l,,-ii,-ath"  . .  195 

Open  Sesame 213      Twin  Immortals 21 13 

Prayer  of  the  Dying.. 113      To  my  dear  hoy 209 

Pilgrims 114      Temperance  campaign  song 215 

Picnic,  July  4th,  18G1 1(>5      The  Legend  of  the  Leaves. 231 

"Put  ye  on  the  Lord  Jesus  Christ.  19<>      To-morrow 'Jin 

Parody 222      ''('sing  as  not  Abusing'' 206 

Request II      \Velcome 77 

Retrospective 50      Welcome  to  April 133 

Resignation <U  Watchman  I  what  of  the  night ?..lft8 

Remonstrance 110  With  the  gift  of  a  fanciful  cro« 

Raillery 175       \Ve  live  by  Deeds 2:?U 

Resurrection 177      Young  Climbers 04 

School-girls' good-night.: 12      ISfil Ilv4 

Stay,  old  year! 18      1825—1875 207 


I  X  V  O  C  A  T  I  O  X  . 


Come!  gentle  Muse,  whose  potent  spell, 
O'er  field  and  prairie,  wood  and  dell, 
Hung  from  my  early  childhood  days 
My  own  Xew  England's  dreamy  haze ; 
Like  her  blue  summits,  which  appear 
To  mount  and  blend  in  upper  sphere  ; 
Thy  fantasies  in  wayside  walks — 
Suggestions  thine  in  simple  talks — 
Lifted  many  a  hillock  low 
To  simulate  the  mountain's  brow, 
And  bent  the  glory  of  the  sky 
Through  rainbow-tinted  ministry ; 
I  cull  thy  flowers  along  the  path, 
Some  starry  blooms  the  valley  hath — 
More,  heavy  with  the  dew  of  tears 
Droop  like  Spring's  early  harbingers; 
Come,  twine  them  with  a  subtle  grace, 
Give  each  its  fitting  form  and  place, 
Among  the  modest  borders  let 
Some  fragrant  immortelle  be  set, 
That  through  the  fading  symbol  yet, 
Heart  may  to  heart  perpetuate 
The  living  sympathy  which  claims 
Infinite  kinship — heavenly  aims— 
And  love,  which  tips  each  cloudy  night 
With  the  gilt  edge  of  perfect  light. 


~- 


4  4 

0  LEAFLETS   FROM 


THE    ROBIN'S    PLEA. 


Come,  now,  and  take  your  pay 

Out  of  my  tuneful  throat, 
For  fruit  you  so  deplore  ; 

Hark !  would  you  change  thai  note  ? 

LTp  in  this  sheltered  nook 

My  little  mate  and  I, 
Our  modest  leaf-thatched  hut 

Constructed  quietly. 

And  while  the  fabric  grew 

With  honestest  intent, 
Right  early  every  rnorn 

We  paid  our  daily  rent. 

We  hung  the  slender  wall 

With  its  soft  lining  round, 
And  then,  adventurously, 

Glanced  out  to  view  the  ground. 

Among  the  spreading  boughs 
These  cherries,  rosy-cheeked, 

A  week  or  more  have  been 
Playiog  at  hide  and  seek. 


XATIVK    WOODS.  7 


We  tasted  them,  of  course, 
With  innocent,  bird-like  trust. 

Grateful,  we  thought  perchance 
You  planted  them  for  us. 

And  as  abroad  1  flew 

To  feast  my  wondering  eyes 
On  nature,  and  to  take 

Some  healthful  exercise, 

Sweet  berries  I  espied, 

Shaped  like  your  thimble,  Miss, 
And  many  a  dainty  meal 

They've  given  me  ere  this. 

Those  currants,  white  and  red, 
Hanging  so  plenteonsly, 

I  surely  thought  there  were 
Enough  for  you  and  me. 

And  while  your  garden  fed 

Our  modest  appetite, 
Unto  another  sense 

We  ministered  delight. 

Waking  our  choicest  songs 
Each  swift  succeeding  day, 

Enlivening  your  toil 
With  sweetest  melody. 

Away  on  yonder  tree 
Owned  by  your  neighbor,  there, 


•i-  •!• 

S  I,  K.  \FI.KTS    FROM 


I  saw  the  cherries  thick 
As  ever  green  leaves  \vere. 

And  over  all  there  hung1 

A  delicate  fleecy  net, 
With  wonder,  ill  concealed, 

Questioned  the  use  of  it. 

Suspended  by  a  cord, 

A  little  pendent  bell 
Discoursed,  at  sundry  tinic-^ 
.  Sounds  sweet  and  musical. 

But  these  conveniences 

I  now  begin  to  see 
Were  not  the  kind  attentions 

They  were  supposed  to  be, 

For  once  my  daily  round 

As  I  essayed  to  take, 
1  heard  a  murmuring  voice 

In  tones  none  could  mistake, 

Saying,  "these  saucy  birds 
Will  all  this  fruit  destroy  ; 

Oh  !  dear!  my  very  life 
They  constantly  annoy." 

Then  followed  hasty  words 
And  harsher  epithets, 

Such  as  one  having  heard 
,\ot  easily  forgets. 


•i -4- 

NATIVE    WOODS.  9 


Surprised  and  greatly  shocked, 
Conscious  of  honest  mind, 

I  plead,  I  have  not  been 
At  all  to  theft  inclined. 

'Tis  but  a  fair  exchange, 

And  well  and  wisely  planned, 
That  we,  in  turn  for  favor 

Some  service  render  man. 

And  may  the  great  All-Father 

Appreciation  give, 
E'en  of  the  humblest  creatures 

His  bounty  makes  to  live. 


MY  EIGHTEENTH  BIRTHDAY. 


What  is  this  mystery  that  broods 
Over  Nature  ?    Winter  no  longer  reigns, — 
But  earth  and  sky  are  heavy  with  portent ; 
Some  subtle  force  seems  wrestling  with  this 

vast 

Inertia ;  not  the  threatening  earthquake, 
But  a  change  as  absolute,  silently 
Creeps  through  the  deep  arteries  of  our  great 
Common  mother,  and  this  March  morn  is  all 
Aquiver  with  the  tremulous  thrill 


10  LKAKLKTS    FROM 

Of  new  awakening  life.    No  bud— no  leaf-- 
But  from  a  giant  heart  the  vital 
Current  of  a  living  world  connects 
Through  countless  pulses.    Steadily  the  won- 
drous 

Organism  perfects  its  circulation. 
Sweet  and  sacred  is  this  ominous  hush 
To  those  who  year  on  year  tenderly  kept 
The  birthdays  of  the  violets,  and  learned 
The  tokens  by  which  the  ferns  unfurl  their 
Curious  fronds.     With  what  expectant  joy 
Our  conscious  hearts  throb  through  this  dor- 
mant 

Period,  detecting  in  clouds  and  winds 
Harbingers  of  animate  loveliness, 
Strength,  and  power.      How  great  and  rich 

in  reserved 

Resources  the  friend  whom  we  call  Nature ; 
Is  there  in  human  life  something  akin 
To  her's?    Is  this  forecast  of  earnestness 
Analogous  to  the  mysterious 
Possession  of  inert  matter  by  some 
Mighty  soul?    Is  then  my  dream  of  girlhood 
Broken?    Is  it  time  to  lay  aside  the  dear 
Delights  of  childhood  hours  for  sterner  tasks? 
Woman  hath  work  to  do.    The  world  hath 

need 

Of  diligent  hands  and  loving  hearts, 
But  something  pleads  not  yet.    Others  have 

left 

Flowery  paths  and  hastened  forth  to  chosen 
Toil.    Not  yet !  not  yet !    Oh  !  little  wicket 


XATIVK    WOODS.  11 


Enclosing   my   pleasant    play  ground,   why 

swing 

Outward  so  soon  into  a  wilderi; 
( )f  unexplored  fields  and  doubtful  paths?    Oh, 
Life  instinct  with  mystery,  must  I  meet 
Thy  serious  visage  hence,  which  like  this 
Great  still  earth  clasps  myriad  purposes 
To  wait  development  ?    I  thought  to  cull 
Wild  roses  this  year  also.     True,  they  faded 
In  my  hand  while  I  remembered  how  Ruth 
Went  gleaning  'mid  the  summer  sheaves. 

Strange  thoughts 

Astir  like  hidden  rootlets  intimate 
That  life  must  grow.    Nothing  goes  backward 

save 
To  blight  and  loss. 

This  mellow  mold  is  rich 
In  prophecy.     I  will  arise  and  follow — 
I  will  take  my  place  among  the  maidens 
Who  humbly  glean  the  precious  scattered 
Grain. 


T 

\'2  I.KAFl.KTS    1'KO.M 


SCHOOL-GIRLS'  i;<)<)!>  NIGHT. 


Good  night,  'teacher  ;  gently  falls 
This  sweet  sound  at  close  of  day, 

And  the  school  room's  hallow'd  walls 
Echoing  the  music  say 

Good  night. 

Good  night,  Mary  ;  softly  still 

Lingers  it  on  lips  \ve  love, 
Sending  through  our  hearts  a  thrill 

As  we  swiftly  homeward  move, 

Good  night. 

Good  night,  Ellen  ;  Fanny,  too, 
With  a  heart- warm  smile  we  greet, 

Dart  the  loving  glances  through 
As  bright  lips  in  parting  meet, 

Good  night. 

Good  night,  Emma,  sweet  and  clear 

Musically  floats  along,. 
Nellie  and  Louisa  dear, 

With  a  strain  of  murmur'd  song 

Good  night. 




NATIVE    WOODS.  13 


Good  night  quavers  at  iny  side — 

Quickly  turning,  I  espy 
Hannah's  form  retreating  hide — 

'Tis  her  bird-like  tones  which  say 
Good  night. 

Good  night  roguish  Addie  breathes 
With  a  shy  mischievous  glance, 

And  the  merry  smiles  which  wreathe 
In  each  rosy  dimple  dance 

Good  night. 

Good  night  sisters,  one  and  all, 
Teachers,  brothers,  hear  us  say ; 

Lo !  the  fading  sunbeams  fall — 
Wearily  declines  the  day, 

Good  night. 

Kindly  greeting,  radiant  smile, 
Loving  glance,  and  they  are  gone — 

Silence  reigns  a  little  while 
Broken  by  to-morrow  morn, 

Good  night. 


4 

14  LKAKLKTS    KHOM 


MOTHER,  DEAR  MOTHER,  KISS  MI-! 


Mother,  dear  Mother,  kiss  me, 

I'm  very  sad  to-day — 
Close  to  your  bosom  press  me 

And  drive  this  cloud  away  ; 
When  I  was  a  wee  lass,  Mother, 

You  hushed  my  infant  cry 
With  words  of  comfort  on  your  lips. 

And  kissed  me  tenderly — 

The  day  is  changed  now,  Mother, 

And  many  years  have  flown, 
But  my  heart  keeps  time,  Mother, 

To  beating  of  your  own  ; 
Whenever  the  shadows  gather, 

Or  when  the  waves  are  wild, 
I  turn  my  shallop  toward  home 

And  am  again  a  child. 

Many  are  the  friends,  Mother, 
The  sunny  Summer  brings, 

Time  is  fleet,  and  life  is  sweet 
When  floating  upon  wings ; 


NAT  I  NT.    WOODS.  1  ."> 

But  when  chill  days  come,  Mother, 

And  butterflies  have  flown, 
We  need  one  loving  heart,  Mother, 

That  we  can  lean  upon. 

Then  kiss  me,  Mother,  kiss  me. 

For  1  am  full  of  tears, 
Nor  can  I  give  any  cause 

For  these  oppressive  fears  : 
So  soothe  me  as  you  used,  Mother,. 

Before  I  ever  knew 
That  every  sorrow  in  the  world 

Could  not  be  shared  by  you. 

As  one  his  Mother  comforts 

Let  me  be  lulled  to  sleep, 
I'll  braver  be  to-morrow 

If  you  my  vigil  keep  ; 
My  dear  long-suffering  Mother, 

How  dark  the  world  would  be 
If  to  the  shelter  of  your  love 

I  never  more  could  flee. 


\()  I.KAKI.KTS    FROM 


UK      HATH      MADE     EVERYTHING 
UKAUTIFUL  IX  ITS  SEASON." 


He  biddeth  the  young  Spring-time 

With  mild  and  balmy  breath, 
Break  o'er  the  world  in  gladness, 

Through  Winter's  dreary  death. 
'Mid  life  outgushing  freely 

While  birds  are  carolling, 
Intoxicate  we  murmur 

"drive  us  perennial  spring  !" 
We   dream,  while   skies    are  smiling— how 

brief  the  day ! 
We  wake!  the  glory  fading,  passes  away. 

He  biddeth  Summer  blossom, 

And  wear  a  blooming  crown, 
'Mid  the  woodlands  and  the  meadows 

Where  Spring's  first  glory  shone  ; 
He  weaveth  rosy  garlands 

And  flingeth  at  our  feet — 
Aud  Spring  is  but  a  child,  beside 

The  blooming  maid  complete  ; 
Entranced,  we  gather  her  offerings  rare 
And  renew  our  vows  to  the  Summer  fair. 


T      "  "T 

NATIVE    WOODS.  17 


He  biddeth  golden  Autumn 

Steal  o'er  the  waving  fields, 
And  rich  abundant  harvest 

The  fruitful  season  yields  ; 
A  bright  and  gorgeous  landscape 

Is  by  His  bounty  spread 
With  fruit  of  every  flavor 

And  leaf  of  every  shade : 
Over  a  beautiful  world  hath  Autumn  sway — 
We  acknowledge  our  monarch — our  tribute 
pay. 

He  biddeth  hoary  Winter 

With  chill  and  icy  hand 
Come  sweeping  o'er  the  water, 

Come  gliding  o'er  the  land. 
He  stringeth  pearls  in  clusters, 

Glitters  in  jewrels  rare, 
And  dazzled  by  his  splendor 

A  welcome  we  prepare : 
Despite  his  frozen  coming,  spread  we  his 

throne — 
And  Winter  reigns  o'er  us— king  of  all  alone. 

Yea,  all  things  have  a  season 

And  in  their  time  rejoice, 
Praising  their  Great  Creator 

With  one  united  voice. 
Alike  the  cloud-capp'd  mountain, 

Alike  the  valleys  raise 
In  everlasting  echo 

A  tribute  to  His  praise : 


JL 

LEAFLETS   FISOM 

Let  man  crowning  creation,  superior  honor 

bring 
Nature's   beneficent  Source  —  of    kings   the 

King. 


STAY,  OLD  YEAR! 


Stay,  old  year— let  thy  little  sail 

Stem  the  swift  returnless  tide, 
Blossoms  of  marvelous  loveliness 

I  left  waving  on  yon  hill-side  ; 
Amaranth  leaves  of  fadeless  hues, 

Merchandise  in  yonder  port, 
With  rich  odors  and  spices  embalmed 

Offerings  fitting  its  royal  court. 

Stay,  old  year— there  are  priceless  gems 

Glimmering  back  thy  dusty  way, 
Sadly  relaxing,  this  feeble  grasp 

Scattered  a  shining  store  to-day  ; 
Oh !  let  me  now, with  earnest  step 

Carefully  the  path  retrace, 
Laden  anew,  with  precious  freight 

Joyfully  thy  passage  haste. 

Stay,  old  year — there  are  pages  dim 

Blotted  too  in  memory, 
Ere  is  added  the  final  seal 

Lei  me  revise  thy  history  ; 


f 

NATIVE    WOODS.  I'.l 


Give  me  but  back  the  spotless  blai.k, 
Wasted  drops  of  the  crimson  fount, 

Swiftly  then  shall  this  winged  shaft 
Deeds  of  mercy  and  love  recount. 

Hark  !  'tis  the  dip  of  the  boatman's  oar 

Launches  boldly  the  tiny  craft, 
Favoring  gales  blow  over  me 

Gazing  regretfully  abaft; 
Xever  more  by  those  radiant  shores 

Shall  the  restless  mariner  ride, 
Coursing  onward  the  viewless  track 

Farther  adovvn  the  river  glides. 
12th  hour,  31st  day,  12th  month. 


LESSONS  OF  THE  RAIN. 


Patter,  patter,  hear  the  footsteps 

Of  the  gentle  rain, 
Improvising  fitful  music 

On  the  window  pane, 
Lower  the  skies  but  yester  morn 

Radiant  and  fair, 
Glimmering  grey  and  distantly 

Through  the  upper  air. 

Myriad  crystal  drops  adorn 
The  dismantled  trees, 


•i-  -I- 

•20  I.KAFLKTS    FROM 


Other  myriad  lightly  ripple 

Miniature  seas: 
Sparkling  cascades,  who>i>  fleet  mission 

Distances  our  -ight, 
Flowing  through  ten  thousand  channels 

Limitless  as  light. 

'Xeath  the  sheltering  protection 

Of  my  humble  home, 
Where  the  sun  of  love  is  shining 

Heed  I  not  the  storm  : 
Save  a  tender  thought  of  pity 

And  of  helpless  pain, 
For  misfortune's  children  wandering 

In  this  Winter  rain. 

Sterner  storm-clouds  oft  encompass 

With  their  sullen  dread, 
Beating  merciless  and  heavy 

Some  defenceless  head ; 
Frosts  of  cheerless  discontent 

Chill  Life's  hardiest  flowers, 
Driving  sleet  and  hail  of  scorn 

Banish  summer  hours. 

Rivulets  whose  sweet  intent 

To  enrich  and  bless, 
Ice-bound,  shiver  'nealh  the  dense 

Mist  of  selfishness  ; 
Sparks  ignited  from  the  flame 

Of  Divinity, 


NATIVE    WOODS.  21 

'Neath  Earth's  sordid  ashes  hide 
Ignominiously. 

But  the  Spring  is  surely  coming— 

Her  inspiring  breath 
Vivifies  with  wondrous  vigor 

Nature's  seeming  death. 
Snows  depart — and  icy  thrall 

Yields  the  sceptred  hand, 
A  new  resurrection 

Now  awaits  the  land. 

Shall  we  from  the  dormant  state 

Of  inaction  rise, 
Fling  the  portals  of  our  hearts 

Wide  to  sunny  skies, 
WThile  the  gentle  showers  of  Truth 

Love's  young  buds  recruit, 
Nourish  their  delightful  bloom 

Up  to  perfect  fruit. 


LKAFLKTS    KKOM 


DO  THEY  MISS  ME   AT  SCHOOL? 


Do  they  miss  me  at  school  ?  do  they  miss  me, 

As  gather  lov'cl  faces  at  morn, 
And  Earth  is  unconsciously  gilded 

With  sunlight,  so  rosy  and  warm, 
Do  there  linger  soft  eyes  at  the  windows 

And  voices  unspeakably  dear, 
As  turning  away  half  regretful 

Murmur,  "Oh  !  how  I  wish  she  was  here." 

Do  they  miss  me  at  school?  do  they  miss  me, 

As  merrily  pealeth  the  chime, 
And  the  lightest  of  footsteps  obeying 

Hasten  home  at  the  noon's  golden  prime  ; 
Does  some  lov'd  one  turn  back  a  moment 

And  muse  of  a  bright  Winter's  day, 
When  as  now  she  had  paused  with  the  ques- 
tion, 

"Is  there  no  one  that's  going  my  way  ?" 

Do  they  miss  me  at  school  ?  do  they  miss  me, 
As  warm  greetings  fly  quickly  around, 

And  arms  that  instinctively  open 
Bound  precious  ones  quickly  ai*e  wound  ; 


-4. 

XATIVK    WOODS.  2 


Is  there  ever  a  break  in  the  circle— 
A  link  wanting  in  that  sister  chain, 

Or  do  the  young  hearts  cluster  closer 
Nor  ever  an  absent  one  name  ? 

Do  they  miss  rne  at  school?  do  they  miss  me, 

It  were  sweet  to  be  tenderly  loved 
By  those  who  through  sunshine  and  shadow 

Kindred  spirits  have  truthfully  prov'd  ; 
Oh  !  what  can  e'er  rival  in  vigor 

The  sentiment,  healthful  and  sweet, 
rniting  affections  of  school  girls, 

Endearing  the  place  where  they  meet. 

Do  they  miss  me  at  school?  do  they  miss  me, 

Would  they  welcome  my  presence  again, 
And  the  lovelight  come  back  to  each  bright 
eye 

As  sweetly  it  beamed  on  me  then ; 
Would  they  grasp  with  the  warmest  of  pres- 
sures 

My  hand,  and  smile  on  me  too? 
Then  know  as  a  tribute  returning 

Beloved  ones,  I  oft  think  of  you. 


LEAFLETS    FROM 


1  N  S  C  11  1  B  K  1) 

OX   A    HKAITIFUL    PICTURE   OF  A   FAIR    (iIRL 
WITH  HARP  IX  HAXD. 


Why  sittest  thou  with  such  pensive  air,  fair 
Sappho?    Is  thy  harp  not  in  tune  that  thus 
Thy  pliant  fingers  idly  sweep  its  strings  '.' 
Methinks  thine  upward  look  invokes  some 
Spirit-presence  to  inspire  thy  music. 
Is  it  with  chastened  joy,  or  tender 
Sorrow,  that  thou  seekest  expression  in  song  ? 
Is  it  a  lay  of  olden  melody 
Or  a  sweet  girlish  sonnet  of  thine  own  ? 
Carelessly  float  thy  dark  luxuriant 
Ringlets  from  their  flowery  band,  drooping 
In  shining  clusters  on  thy  graceful  neck, 
Flows  in  soft  folds  thy  light  loose  robe ; 

Lift  thy 

Mild  eye,  enchantress,  nor  wander  more 
Through  labyrinths  of  song  till  I  shall 
Somewhat  ask.      Tell    me,  dost  thou  ne'er 

breathe 
Thy  heart's  own  deep  impassioned  eloquence 


NATIVE    WOODS. 

Upon  these  strings?     \Vind  they  not  closely 

round 
Thy  life,   linked    with   its  dearest  joys,   its 

fondest 

Hopes?    Open  thy  lips  one  moment,  unveil 
A  little  of  this  mystery  that  shrouds 
Thee  unto  me. 

Ah  !  why  waste  sentiment 
On  pictures— they  are  dumb  to  all  our 
Pleadings  for  heart  history,  passive,  inert, 
But  yet  their  mute  appeal  of  attitude, 
Or  face,  reveals  secrets  of  other  lives 
And  witli  significance  mirrors  our  own. 


OH  !  CALL  ME  NELLIE. 


Oh  !  call  me  Nellie ;  let  the  accents  fall 

So  pleasantly  upon  my  listening  ear, 
That  dearly  loved  home  voices  musical 

With  tender  cadence  I  shall  seem  to  hear ; 
I  would  not  that  ye  seek  more  studied  phrase, 

Or  with  formal  politeness  near  me  come, 
Habit  the  stranger  in  primitive  grace, 

And  simple  manners  of  the  olden  home. 


f 

-<)  I.F.AKLKTS    I-'KOM 


Yes,  call  me  Nellie ;  with  that  charmed  .sound 

A  flood  of  tenderness  is  wont  to  flow, 
I  muse  of  glad  young  faces  clustering  round 

With  each  sweet  lip  upturned  where'er  I  go: 
My  Father  though  he  speaks  it  not  will  dream 

Of  the  one  household  child— his  only  one— 
And  Mother  dear  will  always  lonely  seem 

Thinking  of  Nellie  when  she  was  at  home. 

Oh  !  call  me  Nellie  ;  I  am  but  a  child 

Though  woman's  mission  is  upon  me  now, 
The  gushing  feelings  unrestrained  and  wild 

With  childhood's  freedom  oftentimes  o'er- 

flow  ; 

Ye  would   not  check    this    volatile    temper 
mine, 

When  breezy  gusts  of  gaiety  do  come, 
Or  chide  if  I  should  weep,  but  by  this  sign 

Recognize  Nellie  as  she  was  at  home. 

Yes,  call  me  Nellie  ;  there's  a  vibrant  tone 

Within  my  heart  of  hearts,  while  yet  ye 

speak, 
Echoing  responsive — a  sacred  one — 

Which  this  new  proof  of  interest  doth  wake, 
A  unity  of  purpose  quickly  fires 

Spirits  that  to  a  common  altar  come, 
A  hallowed  influence  trust  inspires 

Like  what  pervades  a  family  at  home. 

Oh  !  call  me  Nellie;  there  are  lips  beloved 
Which  sometimesyllabled  that  simple  name 


•4 


NATIYK    WOODS. 

With  sacred  intonation,  now  removed 
They  hold  my  ear  with  everlasting  claim; 

'Tvvould  bring  me  very  near  your  household 

joys, 
If  with  familiar  greeting  ye  would  come 

And  trusting  Nature's  first  impulsive  voice 
.lust  call  me  Nellie  as  thev  do  at  home. 


TO  MY  HUSBAND 

ON  RKCKtVIXG  MY  FI  KST  LKTTKR  FROM  IIOMK. 


Forgive  these  failing  tears,  for  joy  or  woe 
Hath  quick  connection  with  interior  springs, 

Which  fed  to  fullness,  speedily  o'erflow, 
Nor  of  their  source  or  depth  bring  any  1  id- 
ings,  ] 

Nor  yet  are  proof  of  weakness,  the  bright 

shower 

Through  which  sunbeams  reflect  their  glit- 
tering gold 

In  rainbow  facets,  shows  as  wondrous  power 
As  the  storm-shaken  forest  drenched  and 
cold. 


128  LKAKLKTS    KKOM 

\\'e  may  not  know  the  secret  of  the  brook 
Noisily  babbling  o'er  its  shallow  bed, 

Or  the  deep  river's  burden,  albeit  look 

With  skill  to  fathom  each    with   line  and 
lead. 

The  mystery  of  changeful  hurrying  moods    • 
Ye  cannot  run  and  read  nor  yet  explain, 

Ask  April  of  her  skies  and  verdant  woods, 
Whene;1  and  how  came  their  varied  shades 
of  green. 

How   smiles   and   tears  chasing  each   other, 
blend 

In  a  new  compound,  is  an  alchemy 
No  science  has  discovered  ;  how  a  friend 

Can  love  yet  grieve,  remains  a  mystery. 

Yet  have  patience  ;  delicate  processes 
Develop  like  the  ever  typic  germ 

Caressed  and  shielded,  yet  required  no  less 
To  reach  maturity,  knit  fair  and  firm. 

Oh  !  blessed  sunshine  of  abundant  love, 
Visit  my  life,  producing  grace  and  bloom, 

Oh !  tender,  tearful  rain,  drop  from  above 
To  nourish  virtue's  roots,  and  shed  perfume. 


-4 

NATIVE    WOODS.  -!!> 


L  I  L  L  I  A  X  . 


There  hath  come  into  our  home 

A  tiny  baby  form, 
And  with  the  glad  occasion 

A  new  love-link  is  born; 
A  precious  gift  we  deem  her, 

Prizing  her  none  the  less 
Because  she  clingeth  to  us 

In  utter  helplessness. 

.V  brief  month  only  claiming 

Our  assiduous  care, 
Part  and  parcel  of  our  lives 

She  holds  a  noble  share  ; 
Her  eyes  are  shining  mirrors 

We  seem  to  see  in  them 
Reflected  heaven's  own  azure 

Lit  by  a  glad  sunbeam. 

How  little  knoweth  Lillian 
To  what  world  she  hath  come, 

In  blissful  unconsciousness 
She  lieth  fair  and  dumb, 


4- 


•"'<'  J.KAKF.KTS    KKOM 


Like  a  fringed  gentian  peeping 
From  its  protecting  cup 

With  all  its  dewy  promij-e 
Daintily  folded  up. 

Outstripping  her  slight  stature 

Her  baby  graces  grow 
.Daily  in  our  affections, 

There  is  no  limit  now 
To  the  fine  care  which  hovers 

With  blessing  o'er  her  rest, 
As  birds  on  fluttering  pinion.- 

Above  a  downy  nest. 

As  in  a  cultured  garden 

The  spotless  lily  stands 
I  legal  among  the.  flowers, 

Safe  from  defiling  hands, 
So  our  small  bulb  in  sweet  air 

And  choice  earth  envelop, 
Her  feet  among  the  lilies, 

Her  forehead  lifted  up. 

A  human  bud  expanding 

Before  our  eager  eyes, 
Bespeaking  careful  nurture — 

A  stray  from  Paradise; 
Blest  Giver  of  this  treasure,. 

Hallow  sweet  nature's  tie 
With  loftier  purposes 

And  gracious  ministry. 


XATIVK    WOODS. 

Guard  her  winsome  infancy 

Secure  from  every  ill, 
In  soul,  in  mind,  in  person. 

Our  dearest  hopes  fulfill: 
Make  her  young  girlhood  happy, 

Thyself  her  sure  defense, 
Reset  with  diamond  virtue, 

The  pearl  of  innocence. 

We  crave  no  earthly  riches. 

We  seek  no  gilded  prize. 
For  this  our  first-born  darling 

Far  purer  wishes  rise. 
Honor  our  brave  ambition, 

Respect  our  ottering, 
And  make  our  Lillian 

A  daughter  of  the  King. 


M  A  R  I1  1 1  . 


'Mid  last  night's  darkness,  March  forlorn  and 

sad 

Wept  her  last  hours  away.    The  ministering 
Wind  tuned  its  great  viol  to  the  tenderest 
Key  this  year  hath  taught,  and  through  its 

minor 

Scale,  deep-toned  and  mournful,  accompanied 
Her  tears.    Peace  to  her  memory.     Forget 
Her  frowns,  her  sometime  unkind  counten- 
ance. 

4  * 

T"  "T" 


•J-  4 

'.}'2  I.KAKI.KTS    FROM 


Hath  she  rudely  entreated  tlie  young  buds, 
<  )r  bowed  (he  shrinking  sapling,  or  wantonly 
Buffeted  tlie  hoary  oak?     Let  this  atone  — 
She  wept.     Hath  she  smiled  upon  the  rare 
Fruit-promise  and  then  frozen  it  with  her 
Cold  tinkers?     Hath  she  refused  the  prayer 
Of  shivering  branches  pleading  to  be  clad? 
Detained  the  grass-blades  within  their  Winter 
Fastnesses?     Frighted  the  song-birds,  or  tur- 
ned 

Tlie  train  of  wild  geese  retrograde?    "Set 
It  not  down  in  malice."     The  errors 
Of  the  repentant  dead  kind  memory 
Shrouds,  and  wreathes  them  with  their  vir- 
tues as 

With  flowers.     One  night  she  robed  the  trees 
In  ermine,  every  little  shrub  was 
Muffled,  all  the  vines  hung  fairy, 
Feathery  festoon?.     Again  she  fashioned 
A  crystal  setting  and  the  world  shone  like 
Enchantment.     Behold  how  swift  her  court- 
iers 

Learn  another's  bidding.     April  hath  won 
The  fickle  skies  to  smile  out  of  their  tears 
For  her.     To-morrow  she  will  clothe  them 
In  gold  livery,  or  sable  fringes,  as 
Best  befitteth  her  capricious  humor. 
A  little  power  pro  vet  h  base  mettle, 
Or  giveth  play  to  noble  faculty  ; 
1  remember  when  April  ruled  the  kingdom 
Like  a  fretful  housewife  rather  than 
A  benignant  sovereign. 


NATIVE    WOODS. 


Oh!  I  am 

Slow  exchanging  friendships.     I  herald  not 
Her  praise,  but  follow  afar  the  supple 
Multitude  till  I  henoefoith  shall  prove  her. 


T  H  E    L  A  BORER. 


Patiently  o'er  the  broken  sod 
Day  hy  day  doth  the  farmer  plod, 
Holding  his  plow  with  firm,  strong  hand, 
Turning  the  loose  and  mellow  land. 

Rising  up  when  the  first  gray  dawn 
Heralds  the  glory  of  coining  morn, 
Blessing  his  frugal,  sweet  repast, 
Out  to  his  daily  labor  hastes. 

Cheerfully  going  forth  to  sow, 
Xever  fore-knowing  which  shall  grow, 
Scatters  broadcast  the  precious  grain, 
Waiting  the  early  and  latter  rain. 

Carefully  checking  noxious  weeds 
Which  choke  the  life  of  tender  seeds, 
Winding  all  day  from  dewy  morn 
In  and  out  of  the  shining  corn. 

Vigilant,  tireless,  patient  care 
Month  after  month  and  year  by  year, 


4 


I.KAKLKTS    KUO.M 


Doing  all  that  his  might  can  do 
Never  makes  a  single  leaflet  grow. 

Fainting  or  hopeful,  press! ng  on 

Through  flood  or  drought  and  burning  sun, 

Vain  his  labor  and  sad  his  lot, 

The  (jlod  of  the  harvest  blessing  not. 

Laborers  bearing  immortal  grain 
God  hath  set  on  His  living  plain, 
In  each  portion  the  promise  leaves, 
"Faithfully  sow,  ye  shall  gather  sheaves." 

"Seed-time  and  harvest  are  my  can-, 
Hasten,  for  earnest  work  prepare, 
Unheeding  pain  or  weariness, 
I  will  repay— in  Me  is  rest." 


H  O  M  E    CAR  O  L . 


I  have  one  little  daughter 

In  whose  blue  earnest  eyes, 
I  mark  the  glow  of  eager  thought 

And  read  rich  histories  : 
She  will  glide  to  my  side 

From  her  careless  play, 
She  will  gaze  in  my  face 

In  her  winsome  way,— 
With  the  velvet  touch 

On  my  shoulder  laid 


•r  -4 

XATIVK    WOODS.  :'>•> 


Of  her  little.hand, 

Which  hath  often  made 
My  heart  wildly  thrill, 
•    ( )r  at  once  stand  still. 

Slie  hath  a  vague,  wild  yearning 

For  something  undefined, 
And  she  strives  to  satisfy 

Her  restless  little  mind: 
With  her  eyes  how  she  tries 

Everything  to  see, 
What  she  hears  with  her  eai> 

Ponders  musingly, 
Like  the  pattering  rain 

'.Neath  the  drowsy  eaves, 
Or  the  rustling  fall 

Of  the  Autumn  leaves, 
Do  the  questions  slip 
From  her  rosy  lip. 

She  hath  a  little  sister, 

"With  hair  of  sunny  brown, 
Whose  voice  is  ever  unto  hers 

What  echo  is  to  sound. 
In  her  eye,  merrily 

Twinkle  sparks  of  mirth, 
In  its  cup,  bubbles  up 

Free  as  air  to  earth, 
In  a  moment  more — 

Fitful  April  child ! 
How  the  tear  drops  pour 

Where  the  sunlight  smiled, — 

.L 


LKAKLKTS     FROM 

Now,  the  sky  is  clear — 
And  now,  clouds  appear. 

In  the  twilight's  hush'd  glimmer 

Daylight  fading  silently, 
Mark  upon  the  wall  the  shadows 

Flitting  swiftly,  airily, 
To  and  fro — there  they  go 

Chasing  one  another, — 
Little  feet — tripping  fleet, 

Turning,  kis-;  each  other. 
Then  at  last  subside 

Noisy  glee  and  wonder 
And.  the  merry  eyes 

Drop  away  to  slumber. 
Then  I  sit  me  down 
Oft  and  muse  alone. 

With  a  brimming  heart  of  question- 
Hopefully,  fearfully, 

Strive  I  through  the  distant  future 
To  read  their  destiny. 

And  I  know  where  the  flow 
Of  life's  stream  is  tending, 

Unless  love  fully  prove 
Faithful,  unending ; 

The  restless  rising 
Of  the  fettered  soul, 

The  stormy  wavelets 
Oftentimes  that  roll, 

Proclaim  good  or  ill 

Waiting  on  the  will. 


,L- 

NATIVK    WOODS.  37 


One  little  girl  I  fear  me 

Will  tread  a  weary  path, 
For  she  is  sadly  lacking 

The  principle  of  faith. 
She  receives  and  believes 

What  her  eye?  have  seen, 
But  she  must  take  on  trust 

More  than  this  I  ween. 
Father !  let  her  not 

On  life's  sea  he  lost, 
Drifting  far  aside 

Weary,  tern  pest -tossed. 
Open  thou  the  harbor 
Of  thy  love  to  her. 

Twining  arms  encircle  me 

Shielding  now  from  sorrow, 
But  we  cannot  know  the  draught 

Which  awaits  the  morrow. 
Many  a  child,  once  that  smiled 

Innocent  and  free, 
Sorrow-stained,  hath  complained 

Long  and  bitterly. 
Savior!  once  a  child, 

Earnestly  we  pray 
Guide  these  little  ones 

In  the  narrow  way. 
Let  thy  loving  arm 
Shield  from  every  harm. 

I  bend  me  o'er  each  pillow 
Ere  close  my  weary  eyes, 


* 


LEAFLETS   FROM 

WTith  an  earnest  retrospect 

Of  tender  memories  ; 
Stern  and  true,  the  review 

Of  the  day  is  passing, 
Errors  here,  doublings  there, 

My  sad  glance  retracing; 
Sometimes  sadly  wayward 

Older  children  prove, 
Would  they  turn  as  gladly 

With  repentant  love, 
Lost  one-half  the  bitter, 
Sweet  would  be  still  sweeter. 


BROTHER    JOHN    AT    TWENTY-ONE 


My  brother,  your  first  score  of  beautiful 
Returnless  years    is  full.    As  through    the 

Golden 

Gate,  the  traveler  sweeps  the  swift  receding 
Landscape,  mountain  and  luxuriant  vale 
On  smiling  shore,  then  turns  to  breast  the  low 
Monotonous  stretch  of  boundless  waste  un- 
known, 

Undefined;  so  you  serenely  gliding 
Out  Youth's  golden    gate,   with    backward 

glance  catch 

Retreating  shores  and  halcyon  skies 
Of  Boyhood's  sheltered  bay,  and  turning,  face 
With  serious  earnestness  the  open  main, 


» 

T 

NATIVE    WOODS.  3J > 


White  crested  and   upheaving,  tossing    you 
Hints  of  mystery  in  its  spray — its  wonders 
Unexplored,  unfeared  its  treacherous  forces. 
Fairly  embarked  on  limitless  ocean 
Your    white  sails    woo  favoring    gales  and 

bravely 
Stand  to  sea. 

As  earlier  launched,  o'erswept 
By  breakers,  imperiled  oft,  yet  sure 
Of  the  main  channel.  I  note  your  course 
And  signal  back.     Oh  !  joy  to  know  who  holds 
Your  'helm— whose  sealed  orders  you  bear. 
Beware  of  shoals  nor.  trust  invidious 
Calm— consult  the  friendly  beacon — study 
The  chart— let  no  untimely  trade  wind 
O'er-take  your  idle  sail— Watch ! 

As  a  goodly 

Merchantman  gather  rich  cargo,  gold 
Of  experience,  precious  stones  of  holy 
Purposes  and  noble  deeds,  pearls  that  pass 
Current  at  the  Upper  Port.     One  voyage 
Longer  or  shorter,  now  swift  scudding  o'er 
Smooth  water,  anon  slow  laboring  'round 
Some  dangerous  point  'gainst  adverse  winds, 

still 
Nearing  the  haven  of  your  hope. 

Dear  broth  er, 

Not  as  wrecks  let  us  be  cast  upon 
The  Sapphire  Shore.     Full  rigged  and  taut 


T  4 

tO  I.KAKLKTS    FROM 


And  richly  freighted  may  its  shining  sands 
Receive  us,  \vhiie  other  craft  trace  our  wide 

wake — 
Follow  our  gleaming  sail. 


ECHOES. 


When  the  rosy  sunlight 

Gilds  the  eastern  sky, 
And  the  darkness  fleeth 

Swiftly— silently, 
Children's  beaming  faces 

With  the  morning  come, 
Make  the  inner  sunshine 

Bright  in  many  a  home. 

When  the  birds  go  winging 

From  their  quiet  nest, 
Merry  bird-like  voices 

Mingling  with  the  rest 
Make  the  household  music 

Echo  full  and  clear, 
Putting  in  a  chorus 

Sweetly  here  and  there. 

While  the  hours  are  hasting 
Through  the  busy  day, 

Little  feet  go  tripping 
Each  familiar  way, 


NATIVE    WOODS.  41 

And  the  pleasant  murmur 

Of  their  joyousness 
Is  alike  expressive 

Of  our  happiness. 

So  our  hearts  keep  freshened 

As  with  early  dew, 
Memory  softly  saying 

We  were  children  too, 
Makes  us  mild  and  patient, 

Makes  us  glad  and  gay — 
And  life's  grave  routine 

Constant  holiday. 


A  MESSAGE. 


My  brother  in  playful  mood 
Gave  me  this  sheet  of  white, 

And  bade  me  across  the  sea 
A  little  message  write. 

Ah!  how  to  the  far  unknown 
Shall  I  launch  this  tiny  craft? 

This  dove  with  an  olive  branch 
What  favoring  breezes  waft  ? 

Swifter  than  white  sail  gliding 
Yon  blue  waves,  is  the  wing 

Of  thought,  to  ends  of  the  earth 
O'er  the  loved  hovering. 


-i- 


4 

42  LKAFLKT.S    FROM 


Brighter  than  jewels  of  gold 
Are  affections  fhat  cling, 

They  heighten  the  bliss  of  living 
And  sweeten  everything. 

Over  us  all  is  the  dome 

Of  one  glorious  sky, 
Over  us  all  is  the  watch 

Of  one  Unsleeping  Eye. 

So  whether  we  walk  the  land 
Or  ride  the  restless  deep, 

We  trust  one  Potent  Hand 
Our  best  treasures  to  keep. 

Here's  my  hand  and  kindly  wish— 
May  sweet  delights  of  sense 

And  pure  soul-felt  pleasures 
Enrich  experience ; 

So  that  this  passing  journey 
Speed  safely  and  joyfully, 

Type  of  a  prosperous  voyage 
On  life's  uncertain  sea. 


f  — 4. 

XATIVK    WOODS.  4:] 


LINKS 

ACCOMPANYING  A  CHILD'S  DAGUERREOTYPE. 


Sweet  buby  May,  they've  pictured  thee 
In  thy  young  budding  beauty  now, 

Each  childish  feature  faithfully, 
Each  charming  cast  of  lips  and  brow. 

They've  caught  the  sunbeam  peeping  out 
From  thy  soft  eyes  of  laughing  blue, 

Though  half-way  veiled,  theirliquid  light 
Reveals  a  glance  of  mischief  too. 

They've  chained  each  tress  of  sunny  hair 

All  carelessly  as  last  it  lay, 
E'en  its  faint  tinge  of  gold  is  there 

Like  morning's  early  mellow  ray. 

Here  is  the  shadow  of  a  smile, 
The  rose  suffuses  either  cheek, 

And  parted  lips  caught  in  the  act 
Though  silent — eloquently  speak. 

Aye,  they  have  borrowed,  every  charm 
The  slight  form  bears  so  gracefully, 

The  tiny  hand,  the  dimpled  arm, 
In  their  round  perfect  symmetry. 


4 

44  L,EAFI,KTS    FROM 


Hut  this  they've  sought  to  steal  in   vain 
Childhood's  confiding  trust  and  love, 

Beyond  the  sun,  despite  the  chain, 
Their  perfect  impress  lives  above. 


REQUEST. 


"Oh!  my  friends,  have.  y«  forgotten  t"  pray  for  mr 

My  brother  beloved  ! 

I  crave  earnestly 
One  boon,  that  a  breath 

May  confer  upon  me. 

Your  sensitive  heart 

Its  generous  care, 
With  the  poor  and  needy 

Rejoiceth  to  share. 

Enfolding  your  loved  ones 
When  you  bend  the  knee, 

Let  your  scope  of  petition 
Embrace  even  me. 


-;—  -4 

NATIVE    WOODS.  4o 


BESSIE. 


Bessie  is  a  merry  maiden — 

Blithe  and  gay  and  full  of  hope, 
And  her  heart  retains  its  freshness 

Like  the  dew  in  lily-cup  ; 
Bessie  is  a  child  of  nature, 

Sportive,  brimming:  o'er  with  glee, 
Timid,  coy,  yet  all  the  sweeter — 

Bessie  is  the  girl  for  me. 

Bessie  is  a  forest  wild  flower, 

Blooming  in  its  farthest  dell, 
And  the  birds  and  all  the  blossoms 

Know  the  little  fairy  well. 
Bessie's  eyes  are  like  the  sky-depths 

In  their  azure  brilliant  hue, 
If  you  see  my  gentle  Bessie 

Maybe  you  will  love  her  too. 

Bessie  is  not  vain— coquettish, 

Artful — all  devoid  of  trust, 
But  it  only  takes  a  moment 

To  produce  a  tell-tale  blush  ; 
Bessie  is  all  grace  in  motion, 

There's  a  lightness  in  her  step 
You'd  attribute  to  some  spirit 

You  have  fancied  in  your  sleep. 


~r 

4(5  I.KAKM-;TS  FROM 


.Bessie's  voice  is  like  the  music 

Waking  in  a  poet's  dream, 
<  Mi !  you'd  think  the  birds  had  t;uig!it  her 

Or  the  little  dancing  stream  ; 
Bessie  is  a  trusting  lassie 

Newly  charming  every  day, 
'Tis  no  wonder  that  I  love  her, 

Bessie  is  the  girl  for  me. 


A  SPRING  EXPERIKNCE. 


The  hardy  little  lilac  buds 
Peeped  forth  one  sunny  day, 

While  Winter  slept  behind  a  hill, 
And  Spring  stole  forth  to  play. 

The  south  wind  softly  whispered, 
The  skies  bent  smiling  down, 

Invoking  brown  hills  and  prairies 
To  put  their  beauty  on. 

But  the  early  buds  were  timid, 

They  heeded  not  the  call, 
For  they  feared  old  Winter's  sleeping 

A  ruse  to  kill  them  all. 

So  the  daisy  slept  on  the  hill-side, 
The  wind-flower  in  the  wood, 

And  the  blue  bell 'mid  the  hazel  brush, 
Its  chosen  solitude. 


NATIVE    WOODS.  47 


And  the  grass  blades  close  together 
In  their  winter  covert  lay, 

Awaiting  the  April  sunshine, 
Or  brighter  dawn  of  May. 

But  the  cheerful  trusting  lilac 
Put  forth  its  leaflets  green, 

Kudosing  the  future  promise, 
Its  purple  blossoming. 

A  -torin  cloud  came  floating  over, 
Obscured  the  morning  sun, 

And  Spring  crept  back  affrighted, 
The  day's  brief  frolic  done. 

Stern  Winter  arose,  and  casting 

His  mantle  o'er  the  plain, 
Bade  its  foldsj,  all  white  and  chilling, 

Envelop  the  earth  again. 

'Mid  the  snowy  wreath  encircling 
The  leaflets  kept  their  trust, 

The  bleak  wind  bowed  the  branches, 
But  the  buds  were  kindly  nursed. 

And  now  they  are  gladly  greeting 
Each  warm  and  welcome  ray, 

Hoarding  up  their  grateful  fragrance, 
To  bless  a  future  day. 

Ye  may  call  it  a  common  flower — 
Ye  may  pass  it  lightly  by, 


I 

"T 

48  LEAFLETS    FROM 


To  my  heart  'tis  sweetly  tolling 
A  nobler  destiny/ 

For  to  me  it  is  an  emblem, 
With  its  meek  enduring  faith, 

Of  a  love  no  Winter  rhilleth, 
Which  never  knoweth  death. 


SUSIE. 


"Not  litTi1  1'iit  ribi-n." 

Your  darling  is  safe, 

Never  wailing  or  sigh 
Shall  pass  her  white  lips, 

Or  bedim  her  blue  eye. 
In  that  beautiful  song, 

Her  soft  voice  will  chime 
Through  unending  ages— 

Tii measured,  by  time. 

Your  darling  is  safe, 

The  chill  of  no  winter 
Is  felt  through  the  portals 

Those  blessed  ones  enter; 
There  the  sweet  buds  unfold 

In  the  bosom  of  love  ; 
No  frost  of  unkindness 

Permitted  above. 


NATIVE    WOODS.  49 


Your  darling  is  safe, 

Ere  a  tempest  assay, 
The  nautilus  sail 

Is  folded  away 
In  the  beautiful  trust 

Of  unquestioning  love, 
Depths  of  compassion 

Beginning  to  prove. 

Your  darling  is  safe, 

The  storm  clouds  that  hover 
With  threatening  dread 

Each  human  life  over, 
Shall  never  obscure 

Their  glorified  sight, 
Who  dwell  in  the  presence 

Of  Jesus  the  Light. 

Your  darling  is  safe, 
Your  arms  could  not  shelter, 

Sin's  pitiless  blast 
Would  frighten  and  pelt  her— 

You  writhe  in  it  now — 
She  is  housed,  she's  at  rest, 

Look  up  through  your  dim  eyes- 
Acknowledge  it  b^est. 


50  LEAFLETS  FROM 


RETROSPECTIVE. 


Good-b;;e,  old  friends— you  part 

From  this  fair  spot  with  a  long,  heavy  sigh, 
From  thousand  springs  the  rills  of  feeling 
start 

And  flood  the  pleasant  fields  of  memory. 

Good-bye,  old  friends — I  came 
A    wondering  child    to  this    far  stranger 

land, 

Shared  the  rude,  low-roofed   hut — the  hum- 
ble fare — 
Hardship  and  peril  of  the  pilgrim  band. 

Good-bye,  old  friends — how  oft 

Those   log   sides  echoed  grateful  songs  of 

praise, 
Rung  with  mirth,  or  rocked  with  merriment 

The  village  cradle  in  its  early  days. 

Good-bye,  old  friends — we  flocked 
To  the  brown  school  house  every  Sabbath 
day, 

With  simple  taste  the  unleavened  truth 
Thankfully  took  and  went  our  peaceful  way. 


.!. 

NATIVE    WOODS.' 


Good-bye,  old  friends— now  wide 

Reach  the  sweet  ties  of  kindred  andof  home, 
Those  many  scattered  ones  through  moist 
eyes  see 

That  lovely  vista  whereso'er  they  roam. 

Good-bye,  old  friends — new  scenes — 
New  faces — churches   and  fair   dwellings 
rise — 

New  voices  where  was  silence— silence  here 
While  «ome  beloved  sound  angel  harmonies. 

Good-bye,  old  friends— we  cling 

With   strong  and  loving  clasp  to  earthly 

home ; 
But  we  as  travelers  nightly  pitch  our  tent 

A  little  nearer  home — nearer  our  home. 


FOLLOW  MK. 


Jesus  walking  by  the  sea 
Said  so  kindly,  "Follow  me," 

To  some  fishermen, 
That  they  cast  their  nets  away 
Without  question,  from  that  day 

Jesus  following. 

Though  He  walks  no  more  below, 
Jesus  on  the  wayside  now 
Seeketh  followers, 


»{.. 
T 

LJOAFLKTS    FROM 


Saying  in  a  loving  voice, 
"Children,  'tis  a  pleasant  choice, 
Come  and  follow  me. 

"Follow  here  this  narrow  way, 
Treading  bravely,  patiently, 

Comforting  the  sad, 
Ministering  as  you  may 
Words  of  cheer  and  sympathy, 

Making  all  hearts  glad. 

"Follow  me,  not  so  precious 
Are  the  heavier  foot-prints 

In  the  golden  street, 
As  the  steps  all  faint  and  fine, 
.Set  so  tenderly  in  mine 

By  your  little  feet. 

"Fojlow  me,  a  shining  road 
Leads  you  on  and  up  to  God, 

Sure  and  steadily, 
Though  the  way  is  passing  strait, 
Enter  at  the  narrow  gate. 

Follow,  follow  me." 


4-  4 


NATIVE    WOODS. 


CONTRAST. 


A  ilear  chilli  removed  from  :(  liiiunt  of  wretchedness,  want  and 
suft'eriiii;  to  tin-  delights  and  blessed  influences  of  a  beautiful 
rountry  home,  writes  thus:  "Everything  seems  saying  to  me 
'Klla,  I  love  you.'  " 

"Ella,  I  love  you."    Hark!  how  sweet 

The  tender  accents  fall 
On  the  young  ear,  so  lone:  unused 

To  voices  musical ; 
The  soft  eye  kindles,  with  a  thrill 

The  little  heart  uphounds, 
Kindness  like  healing  hxlm  distills 

On  the  old  cruel  wounds. 

"Ella,  I  love  you,"  magic  words! 

From  which  thought  swiftly  rears 
Its  first  delicious  memory 

Through  a  wide  waste  of  years ; 
How  the  drear  retrospect  of  woe, 

The  shudder  and  the  sigh, 
Through  Life's  swift  current  sends  the  flow 

Of  untold  agony, 

"'Ella,  I  love  you;'  is  this  Heaven, 

This  fresh  delightful  air, 
These  blossoming  fields,  these  singing  birds, 

These  forms  surpassing  fair? 


* 


•~>t  LEAFLETS   FW>M 


In  my  dark  prison-house  I  dreamed, 

That  up  a  shining  stair 
A  smiling  angel  beckoned  me, 

Methinks  I  must  be  there." 

Love!  touch  that  tuneful  chord  anew, 

Ye  hills  responsive  ring, 
Ye  glad,  free  winds  with  wide  acclaim, 

Ye  woodlands  echoing, 
The  universal  theme,  that  thrills 

The  golden  harps  above, 
Hounds  as  faint  prelude  here  below, 

The  wondrous  key-note—love. 


"CONSIDER  THE  LILIES.'1 


How  gracefully,  upon  ten  thousand  fields, 
The  tender  lilies  rear  their  varied  bloom, 

Through  the  long  summer  days,  untiringly, 
Dispensing  freely,  beauty  and  perfume. 

Unheeding  where  the  feet  of  man  may  tread, 
Or  human  eyes,  admiringly,  behold, . 

They  blushing  bend  beneath  the  eye  of  God, 
And  gladly  their  brief  loveliness  unfold. 

Behold  how  lovingly  the  waters  bear 
Thestately  Nymphre— queen  of  all  her  race — 

Her  sea-green  sandals  vieing  modestly 
With  snowy  beauty  of  her  regal  dress. 


NATIVE    WOODS. 

The.se  wait  upon  their  God — from  altars  pure, 
Their  lowly  offering  of  incense  raise, 

With  their  first  opening  bloom,  the  fields  re- 
joice, 
The  grateful  air  is  full  of  odorous  praise. 

They  toil   not— neither  spin— yet  mightiest 

king, 
Whose  glory  borrowed  gems  from   every 

land, 

And  costliest  array,  could  ne'er  compare 
With  simplest  wonder  of  the  Maker's  hand. 

Oh  !  ye  of  little  faith  !  if  God  so  clothe 
The  humblest  grass  that  springs  beneath 
your  feet, 

Shall  He  not  rather  from  His  ample  store, 
Provide  the  garments  for  His  children  meet? 


BEREFT,  BUT  NOT  FORSAKEN. 


Over  in  the  shady  corner 
Where  in  church  I  used  to  sit, 
Many  a  Sabbath  I  have  seen, 
(And  I  seem  to  see  her  yet,) 
A  gentle  girl  with  pensive  features 
Kindled  by  a  loving  eye, 
And  a  certain  grave  demeanor 
Charming  me  unconsiously. 


LKAFLKTS    FROM 


Weeks  went  by  and  all  forgotten 
Till  from  school,  one  Winter  day, 
( 'ame  my  little  daughter  saying, 
"Nellie  Maynard  died  to-day." 
Suddenly  a  sad  misgiving 
Sei/ed  my  lieart  and  dimmed  my  eye- 
How  this  little  stranger  maiden 
Touched  my  tender  sympathy. 

Friends,  the  iron  your  souls  has  entered 
And  the  pain  is  sharp  and  deep, 
But  a  wonderful  provision 
From  despair  will  surely  keep  ; 
Perchance  from  this  broken  blossom 
Bright  eternal  buds  shall  spring, 
And  this  grievous  seed  of  sorrow 
Fruits  of  sweet  repentance  bring. 

Weak  and  human,  often  erring, 
Helpless  most  where  most  we  love, 
How  can  we  protect  our  treasures, 
Save  to  lay  them  up  above? 
Having  known  the  tender  yearning 
Of  the  fond  parental  breast 
By  your  love  interpret  wisely 
What  your  Father  doeth  best. 

Oh!  believe  Divine  compassion 
Never  sends  a  needless  strode, 
Love  beyond  our  comprohenson 
To  each  neck  adjusts  the  yoke; 


NATIVE    WOODS.  o7 


Let  us  sweetly  grasp  the  promise 
Held  out  to  our  struggling  souls, 
Live  by  Faith — life  hid  in  Jesus 
Who'  the  Universe  controls. 


HEARTH   AND    HOME. 


Let  others  boast  their  titles 

Of  glory  and  renown, 
We  sing  the  brave  Republic 

With  every  one  a  crown ; 
For  a  firm,  broad  fo:in  lation 

We  lay  our  corner-stone, 
And  bright  upon  our  banner 

Emblazon  "Hearth  and  Home," 
Home!  the  key- word  of  charmed  sound 

Melodious  the  world  around. 

Wherever  golden  harvests 

Follow  the  shining  plough, 
Wherever  bloom  and  verdure 

Out  of  waste  places  grow, 
Where  thrift  and  genius  fashion 

Their  monumental  stone, 
Their  goodly  seed  was  nourished 

Beside  the  Hearth  at  Home, 
Home !  the  key- word  of  charmed  sound 

Melodious  the  world  around. 


*b 
t 

I.EAI-'I.KTS    Fi;OM 


Oh!  temples  of  human  love! 

Within  your  snored  walls 
Treasures  of  knowledge  and  skill 

Await  occasion's  calls, 
The  household  ministry 

Hold  rank  among  the  great, 
Hearth  and  Home  are  mightier 

Than  all  the  halls  of  State, 
Home!  the  key-word  of  charmed  sound 

Melodious  the  world  around. 


OUR  GEOLOGIST. 


Well !   here  comes 

The  Apostle  of  the  rocks,  wise,  grave,. 
Imperturbable,  and  yet  withal 
Clad  in  such  genial  humor,  as  conceals 
And  beautifies  all  the  sharp  angles 
Of  his  character,  as  the  fresh,  grateful 
Moss,  rearing  its  delicate  tufts,  adorns 
With  wondrous  grace  the  gray  old  stones  he 

loves. 

Beware,  ye  fossils  of  a  former  race! 
Lest  with  the  keen  shafts  of  his  wit 
He  suddenly  transfix  you. 

Plying 

The  mystic  key,  lo!  he  unlocks  Nature's 
Vast  treasure  house,  walks  familiar 
'Mid  her  mysteries,  skilled  in  her  laws, 


XATIVK     WOODS.  59 


Suiting  to  graceful  diction  her  forces, 
Her  machinery,  and  her  wonders,  wrought 
Ages  'ere  he  began  to  breathe  the  lofty 
Inspiration  of  a  human  soul. 

Down 

In  her  mid-earth  laboratories 
Oft  a  guest,  scaling  the  mountain  tops, 
Standing  interpreter  between  the  mighty 
Architect  and  man,  His  crowning  work. 
Aye,  thou  hast  been  so  face  to  face 
With  Deity,  what  wonder  if  thy 
Countenance    shone,    and    they    who    saw, 

knowing 
Not  why,  call  thee  Enthusiast? 

I  give 

Thee  cheer!  the  treasures  of  thy  knowledge, 
Like  the  unwritten  volume  thou  hast  learned 
To  trace,  are  unexplored  and  dim 
To  my  benighted  vision.     I  have  seen 
What  tongue  can  never  tell  in  flower 
And  tree,  heard  a  few  notes  of  the  great 
Anthem  chanted  continually 
In  Nature  inanimate  and  animate; 
But  thou,  by  the  broad  light  of  Revelation, 
Dost  pursue  material  treatises, 
And  day  by  day  grow  in  the  wisdom 
Of  the  Great  Unsearchable. 


LKAKLKTS    FROM 


NOW  AND  Til  ION. 


Wandering  aimless,  one  by  one, 
Over  the  hunting  grounds,  once  their  o\vn, 
With  stealthy  steps  which,  many  a  year, 
Rivaled  in  fle-etness  the  startled  deer, 
The  scattered  relics  of  mightier  days 
Seek  vainly  a  quiet  resting  place. 

Back  to  the  farthest  solitudes 
The  white  man's  footsteps  hath  pursued, 
Populous  cities  with  busy  train}) 
Have  taken  the  place  of  tented  camps 
Who.-e  dusky  forms  have  glided  on, 
Sadly  in  wake  of  the  setting  sun. 

Where  the  cunning  huntsman  bent  his  bow, 
And  the  mighty  tread  of  buffalo 
Echoed,  along  the  silent  plain- 
Behold  the  harvests  of  waiting  grain 
While  the  keen  swift  blade,  and  iron  hand 
Reap  their  bending   wealth,   at  their   lord's 
command. 

Wnere  the-rustic  wigwam  once  uprose 
Is  reared  the  cottage— the  orchard  grows — 
The  tawny  children  once  at  play 
Have  changed  to  a  fair-browed  group  to-day, 

.u  4. 


^ 

NATIVE    WOODS.  61 


While  ponderous  pillars,  with  gleaming  spires 
Arise  from  the  smoke  of  the  old  watch-fires. 

Alas,  that  the  poor  red  man  should  know, 
In  his  paler  brother,  a  deadlier  foe 
Than  the  hunted  beasts  of  his  native  wild, 
Or  hostile  tribes  in  their  greed  for  spoil, 
Who  with  heart  of  murder,  or  hope  of  gain 
Binds  the  dread  fire-water  galling  chain. 

Alas!  that  h  nation,  rising  up 

In  the  strength  of  right  from  a  foreign  yoke, 

Should  trample  the  weak  'neath  its  grinding 

heel, 

Or  make  its  bidding  a  tyrants  will, 
Or  forge  the  fetter,  or  raise  the  rod, 
Or  stain  this  heritage  witli  blood. 

Alas!  that  the  chains  of  vice  and  crime 
Encircle  men's  souls  in  this  golden  time, 
When  the  wide  world  spurning  tyranny 
Rises  to  love  of  liberty, 
And  Christian's  prayers  and  patriot's  blood 
Hallow  the  ground  by  their  armies  trod. 


Rejoice,  for  all  tyranny  shall  cease, 
From  bondage  of  sin  there  is  sure  release, 
And  the  poor,  despised,  down-trodden,  may 
Arise  Christ's  freemen,  another  day  ; 
The  wrongs  of  earth  shall  be  rignted  then, 
And  His  glorious  kingdom  ushered  in. 


MCAKLKTS    I-'KO.M 


LOSS  AND  GAIN. 


Oh!  a  world  of  treasure  we  held 
In  bright  lips  and  sparkling  eye.s, 
And  ringing  melodies 

Of  bouyant  childish  joy, 
Health  and  bloom  in  each  rosy  face 
Full  of  motion  and  full  of  grace, 

Our  darling  girl  and  boy. 

How  one  brief  week  has  bereft  us— 
Eyes  have  lost  lustre  and  light, 
And  the  frost's  untimely  blight 

Has  paled  the  roses ; 
Weeping  taketh  the  place  of  song, 
On  each  merry,  musical  tongue 

The  hush  of  death  reposes. 

We  sit  by  a  desolate  hearth, 
But  the  little  ones  who  sleep 
Jesus  shall  watch  and  keep 

With  tender,  tireless  care, 
Transplant  to  his  heavenly  home, 
Array^in  new  vigor  and  bloom 

Our  beautiful  angel  pair. 


— *L 

XATIVK    WOODS.  63    I 


ABSENCE. 


I  miss  thee.  dear  one,  when  the  rosy  light 
Beams  soft  and  hallowed  upon  morning's 

brow, 

When  in  gay  circlets  flit  the  sunbeams  bright 

Tuning  to  measure  sweet  their  golden  flow, 

While  throng  day-duties  comes  this  conscious 

pain, 
Thy  presence  cheers  me  not,  I  miss  theethen. 

I  miss  thee  when  with  busy  echoing  tread 
Swift  feet  come  heralding  approaching  noon, 

The  moments  loiter  which  with  happy  speed 
Winged  this  little  hour,  alas!  too  soon  ; 

All  gather  round  the  board,  I  list  in  vain 
For  thy  light  footfall,  and  I  miss  thee  then. 

I  miss  thee  as  around  the  fireside's  glow 
Beloved  ones  circle,  when  the  day  is  done; 

Ripples  of  genial  humor  lightly  flow 
Through  depths  of  earnest  converse,  but 
there's  one 

Exile  from  home,  for  whom  with'eager  ken 
I  search  the  silent  night,  I  miss  thee  then. 


« 

.r 

154  LKAFI.KTS    FROM 


RESIGNATION*. 


When  last  that  young,  fre.sh  lip 
With  its  choice  nectar  laden  pressed  your  own, 

That  brief  delicious  sip 
No  token  brought  thee  as  a  wi  ruing  tone 

That  'twas  its  last. 

This  cheek — its  soft  peach  bloom 
Hath  rested  upon  thine  so  lovingly. 

This  keen  dividing  sword 
Smites    through    this    tendere-it      love,    this 
youngest  tie, 

With  double  edge. 

How  oft  his  innocent  smile 
From  life's  excess  of  weariness  or  pain 

Thy  spirit  hath  beguiled, 
And  won  the  olden  happiness  again 

To  clothe  thy  brow. 

1  tremble,  as  I  think 

Of  the  fond  hopes  which  here  their  center 
found, 

The  agonizing  shrink 
Of  clinging  tendrils,  hastily  unbound, 

Or  broken  off. 


NATIVE    WOODS.  65 


But  when  my  raptured  sight, 
Beyond  the  shadows  of  this  lowly  vale, 

Catches  'mid  Heaven's  own  light 
The  white  robed  cherub  from  the  flesh  un- 
veiled, 

My  tears  depart. 

My  trembling  lip  hath  pressed 
The  pure  pale  forehead  of  the  early  dead, 

And  oh  !  the  loveliness 
Of  the  fair  form  that  coffin  cover  hid, 

Xo  tongue  can  tell. 

My  heart  goes  weeping  forth 
To  share  the  wound  no  human  power  can 
heal ; 

The  furrows  sorrow  makes, 
With  infinite  love  One  Hand  directed  well — 

Thy  will  be  done. 


LITTLE  NO  It  A. 


Asleep,  with  dimpled  hands  folded 

Over  her  breast, 
Upon  the  blue  eyes  so  lightly 

The  white  lids  press. 
Earnest  we  watch,  half  expectant 

The  waking — the  smile — the  caress, 
And  clasp  the  beautiful  vision 

With  murmui'S  of  tenderness. 


66  LEAFLETS   FKOM 


Asleep — upon  the  pure  forehead 

No  shade  of  pain, 
No  care-lines,  of  grief  or  passion 

Never  a  stain, 
Some  lullaby  unlearned  by  mothers, 

Some  accents  persuasive  and  mild 
Have  won  to  a  dreamless  slumber 

The  eager  and  wondering  child. 

Asleep,  but  not  as  the  living, 

Waking  to  toil, 
After  a  night's  brief  forgetting 

Life's  wild  turmoil, 
Putting  on  grief  with  the  garments, 

Girding  the  weariness  round, 
Treading  over  the  oft  trod  path 

Till  another  sun  goes  down. 

Asleep  to  us— to  the  angels 

Enfranchised,   free, 
Clad  in  the  shining  apparel 

Of  endless  day, 
Attained  to  a  holier  life, 

Joining  the  radiant  throng 
In  the  music  of  heavenly  harps, 

And  strains  of  immortal  song. 


NATIVE    WOODS.  67 


A  WORLD  WIDE  CIRCLE  OF  PRAYER. 


Out  of  this  misty  morning  breaks, 
Spanning  the  world,  a  radiant  zone 

Binding  closely  with  shining  links 
Peoples  and  nations  and  tribes  in  one. 

Lo!  it  brightens  the  sea-girt  isles, 

Circles  the  broader  continent, 
Flashes  where  ceaseless  Summer  smiles 

Added  glow  of  its  rainbow  tint. 

See!  in  the  distant  twilight  realms 
Darkness  and  shadow  make  haste  to  flee ; 

Brighter  than  Freedom's  natal  day 
It  bursts  upon  sunny  Italy. 

Over  the  wide  and  pathless  main 
Suspend  cables  of  mighty  prayer, 

While  rays  of  electric  radiance 
Stream  in  the  wakeofthe"MorningStar." 

Over  some  earnest  kneeling  ones 
Never  this  week  shall  day  decline, 

Weaving  the  mystic  bands  that  hold 
Soul  to  its  lofty  origin. 


"      "  T 

68  LEAFLETS   FROM 


BALM   OF  GILKAI). 


Thou  art  fallen,  noble  tree, 

In  the  dust  thy  crowned  head  lying, 
While  a  sharp  pang  seizeth  me 

'Like  an  old  friend's  dying; 
Younger  thou  than  I ; 

I  have  gazed  with  pride 
On  thy  branching  shade 

Spreading  green  and  wide, 
And  thy  stately  form 

Towering  more  and  more, 
Which  for  years  hath  stood 

Sentry  at  the  door. 

When  the  glad  young  Spring-time  came 

With  her  all-animating  breath, 
I  have  seen  thee  lay  aside 

The  livery  of  Death  ; 
Out,  in  bold  relief 

'Gainst  a  cheerless  sky, 
Came  the  fragrant  buds, 

Peeping  modestly, 
And  the  early  rain, 

Soon  through  them  distilled, 
All  the  air  around 

With  rich  perfume  filled. 


NATIVE    WOODS.  69 


Up  into  thy  leafy  arms, 

Of  many  a  bright  May  morning, 
I  have  seen  gay  plumaged  bird? 

Gladly  coftie,  returning, 
And  thy  green  top  seem 

Like  a  palace  hung, 
Many  domed  and  draped 

For  the  feathered  throng; 
There  the  mocking  bird 

Trilled  his  varied  lay, 
And  the  robin  sang 

Sweetly,  cheerily. 

As  the  Slimmer  day  wore  on 

-   From  the  hot  noon-tide's  weary  pant, 

And  the  day-god  from  his  throne    . 

Sent  burning  beams  aslant, 
Intercepted  thou 

Their  unwelcome  heat, 
And  thy  shadow  fell 

Trembling  at  our  feet ; 
(Jentle-voiced  and  low, 

Like  to  sound  of  rain, 
Whispering  breezes  swept 

Through  thy  boughs  again. 

Felled  in  thy  glorious  prime, 
With  thy  emerald  armor  on, 

And  thy  ministry  of  love 
One  season  more  begun, 

Thy  strong  root  tempest  torn 
From  its  moorings  fast, 


70  LEAFLETS  FROM 


Rising  now  no  more, 
The  slorin  is  overpast. 

With  heaviness  at  heartv 
A  dim  and  moistened  eye, 

I  sit  on  thy  prostrate  trunk 
And  bless  thy  memory. 


MOTHERLESS. 


It  is  not  with  me  as  it  has  been ; 
Something  has  crushed  me.    Oh!  this  dread- 
ful pain! 

Out  of  this  fearful  trance  shake  me !  wake  me ! 
Amid  a  wreck  of  broken  hopes  and  shattered 
Purposes,  I  struggle  blind  and  faint 
With  half  my  heart  buried.    God  pity  me, 
There  is  no  comfort  else. 

HenS  centred  all 

Perfect  household  bonds— the  one  broad  bo- 
som, 

Our  dear  haven  when  storms  have  lowered  ; 
Cheerful  to  plan,  and  swift  to  execute 
Love's  labor— hands  ever  busy 
With  a  tireless  skill,  shaping  some  fabric 
To  the  forms  she  loved — restless  feet,  hither 
And  thither  hasting,  chiefest  joy  to  shield 
From  weariness  these  other  lives,  her  own 
So  richly  nourished. 


4 

NATIVE    WOODS.  71 


How  shall  I  speak 

Her  praises  so  beyond  praise.     My  life  is 
Full  of  her,  as  Summer  noon  of  light.     How 
Strong  to  bear  all  life's  encircling  ills, 
In  reach  of  her  warm  heart.     Blow,  ye  pitiless 
Winter  blasts,  rave  on,  Time's  thunder-gusts, 
Let  me  but  stand  firm,  brave  and  proud  be- 
side her ; 

She  taught  me  where  to  lean,  she  guided 
My  wayward  feet  unto  the  cross,  but  O! 
This  staggers  me,  this  is  a  Mara-flood, 
To  roam  this  cold  world  motherless — to  know 
ihe  ceaseless  aching— the  inward 
Desolation — to  sleep,  to  wake  with  a  dread 
Incubus  weighing  my  late  light  heart. 
To  watch  and  start  to  greet  her  wonted  cheerful 
Coming — to  feel  great  ocean  swells  sinking 
To  terrible  calm — all  this  and  more. 
Oh  !  God,  carry  me  out  of  this  weak 
Human  ;  stay  me  on  Thine  arm,  Thou  great 
Unsearchable.     Bind  these  torn  fibres 
And  gird  me  up  to  a  brave  patience.    Help 
Me  walk  in  her  dear  footprints ;  her  rich 
Example,  her  love,  her  prayers,  a  priceless 
Legacy. 

How  know  I  as  I  walk 
In  the  dim  solitude  of  this  deserted 
Home,  but  God  will  let  her  come  to  me 
And  mingle  with  my  woe  a  little 
Of  her  heaven?    Out  to  that  other  shore 
My  yearning  soul  reaches.    Bridge  o'er  this 
mortal 


r 

72  LEAFLETS    FROM 


Life,  ()  Father!  with  deeds  of  love. 
Self-immolation  and  rare  child-like  faith. 
When  all  Thy  righteous  will  we  here  have 
Suffered,  let  us  rise  where  our  chief 
Treasure  is. 

Come,  gather  closer  to  my 
Side,  my  little,  smitten  flock. 


AN  EXPERIENCE. 


I  sat  in  the  dim  twilight  of  my  room, 

Choosing  its  solitude  for  rest  and  tlv.night. 

One  door  away  the  busy  circle 

Gathered,  with  cheerful  talk  whilingthe  hour. 

Ruddy  with  pleasant  light  and  glowing  tire 

The  faces  came  and  went,  and  the  small  stir 

Of  household  duties,  mingled  with  the  hum 

Of  voices,  was  like  music  heard  afar. 

Soon  my  little  daughter  came  within  the  door 

Calling  to  me,  her  hands  outstretched,  groping 

The  dark  for  mine.     As  nearer  drew 

The  uncertain  step,  I  cast  my  arm 

About  her,  and  she  nestled  her  bright  head 

On  my  shoulder  with  loving  faith  and  quiet 

Satisfaction. 

How  oft  we  turn  from  the  gay 
Glimmer  of  these  lesser  lights— from  the  unrest 
Of  these  departing  joys, .calling,  "Our  Father," 


NATIVE    WOODS.  73 


And  grope  in  seeming  darkness  till  the  Strong 
Arm  of  love  enfolds  us,  and  the  peace 
Which  passeth  understanding  fills  our  souls. 


'THROUGH  NATURE  UP  TO  NATURE'S 
GOD." 


"For  the  invisible  things  of  him  from  the  creation  of  the  world 

arc  di-arly  st-i-n,  lining-   uii'li-rstouil  by   tin.'  things   that  are    made 
even  his  c-ti-rnal  jio>vfr  and  Godhead  so  that  they  are  without  ex- 

Whifh  way  went  thy  voice  from  thee,  didst 
Ihou  hear 

The  rush  of  its  departing  wing  but  now? 
Canst  thou  by  searching  find  th'  invisible? 

Or  through  the  tracklos  air  its  course  pur- 


Wlmt  was  the  word,  can'st  thou  at  will  recall? 

Send  thou  swift  messengers  to  stay  its  flight, 
By  the  same  path  they  flee,  nor  come  again — 

'Tis  a  forbidden  way  to  human  sight. 

What  is  thy  countenance  the  present  hour? 

How  looks  the  soul  through  its  low  win- 
dows there? 
Would'st  its  expression  willingly  transfer 

To  the  vast  picture-galley  of  the  air? 

How  know  we  what  unseen  attendants  wait 
With  faithful  witness  on  the  steps  of  man, 


-i 


>*» 


74  I.FAFI.F.TS    F!  (;M 

At  His  high  bidding,  whose  Almighty  Hand 
Hath  all  things  fashioned  by  a  perfect  plan. 

So  thin  the  veil  through  which  to  mortal  eyes 
The  All-pervading  Deity  appears, 

All  His  works  praise  Him,  yea  the  least  of  all 
Some  of  His  glory  like  a  mantle  wears. 

We  tra/e  His  foot-prints  everywhere  we  stray, 
lie  walks  majestic  o'er  earth's  verdant  sod, 

Makes  the  young  buds  His  care,  and  clearly 
leaves  • 

To  willing  eyes  the  impress  of  a  God. 

His  hand  sustain13  the  myriads  of  worlds, 
Attunes  to  harmony  their  wondrous  round, 

While  not  a  single  sparrow's  feeble  wing 
Without  our  Father  falleth  to  the  ground. 

All  know  their  place,acknovvledge  His  behest, 
And  readily  their  strict  obedience  pay, 

While  man   with  his  supreme  endowments 

blest 
Is  ever  seeking  out  some  other  \yay. 

We  call  it  Nature— the  vast  volume  spread 
To  our  oft  rapt  and  e'er  admiring  gaze, 

But  oh  !  how  slow  our  hearts  to  render  up 
To  Nature's  God  the  tribute  of  their  praise! 

With  what  glad  wonder  shall  our  spirit-eyes 
The  book  of  mysteries  unfolded  see 


NATIVE    WOODS.  75 


While  love  interprets  Science  and  reveals 
The  Infinite  Mind,  the  soul  of  harmony. 


GOLDEN    WEDDING    ANNIVERSARY. 


Merrily    peal 

Marriage  bells 
Out  on  this  opening  year. 

While  from  East  and  West 

The  hastening  guests 
Joyously  gather  here ; 

Silver  locks  and  hoary, 

Like  a  crown  of  glory, 
Wreathe  the  broad  high  brow 
Calmly  wearing  now 

Furrows  of  care, 
And  the  kindly  eye 
Beaming  chastened  joy 
Proves  rare  fulfillment 

Of  radiant  prophecy. 

Softly  mingle 
The  tender  chimes, 

While  from  the  household  cheer 
She  of  gentle  mein 
And  countenance  serene 

Tranquilly  draweth  near; 
What  though  the  quick  flush 
Of  youth's  modest  blush 


LKAFLKTS    KKOM 

Her  cheek  no  longer  wears  ! 
With  the  swift  lapse  of  years 

The  maiden's  charms 
Add  the  matron's  grace; 
She  beareth  regally 
The  clustering  honors 

Of  half  a  century. 

Hear  the  Patriarch 

Musingly  tell 
The  reverent  group  around 

Strange  legends  of  yore — 

A  varied  store 

His  checkered  life  hath  known  ; 
Greeting  with  honest  pride 
His  newly  wedded  bride, 
Whose  plighted  faith 
Through  many  years  agone 
Heightened  resplendent  noon, 

Now,  life's  zenith  past, 

Gildeth  its  horizon. 

Cla.«p  the  tried  hands, 

Weld  the  strong  bands 
Surer  and  brighter  than  gwld, 

This  circle  complete— 

These  pledges  replete 
With  wealth  that  cannot  be  told. 
Death  hath  not  hushed  a  voice. 
Number  the  fireside  joys' 

Steady  increase; 
The  household  music's 


>*» -t 

NATIVE    WOODS.  77 


Staid  familiar  beat 
Hath  quickened  to  joyous  carol, 
And  patter  of  tiny  feet. 

Summer  blossoms 

And  Winter  gems 
In  the  passing  pageant  rise, 

Decay  and  change 

In  the  distance  range 
Their  monumental  piles  ; 
Now  from  regretful  eyes 
The  vista  dims  and  vanishes— 

Father  and  Mother  walk 

Down  the  declivity 

With  cheerful  step, 

While  a  rejoicing  band 

Pave  the  steep,  rocky  way 

With   beautiful  moss-tufts, 

And  branches  of  bay. 


WELCOME. 


Ever  welcome,  ever  welcome 

To  our  modest  home, 
To  its  quiet  and  seclusion 

Let  thy  footsteps  come, 
Often  as  thy  spirit  feeleth 

Need  of  sympathy, 
Oft  as  'tis  with  joy  full  freighted, 

Bid  us  share  with  thee. 


78  LEAFLKTS    FKOM 


In  thy  various  round  of  duty 

Hopeful  though  thou  art, 
Well  I  know  there  sometime  coineth 

Trial  to  thy  heart; 
Are  there  any  gloomy  shadows 

Friendship  can  dispel? 
Are  there  any  heavy  burdens 

Help  can  bear  as  well? 

If  thy  path  all  straight  and  pleasmtl 
Through  green  vallies  lie, 

And  a  flood  of  golden  sunlight 
Gilds  thy  morning  sky, 

Hoai'd  it  not,  my  generous  brother, 
For  a  future  day — 

Open  wide  the  spirit  windows- 
Let  it  shine  this  way. 

Dost  thou  hesitate  to  prove  us? 

If  are  wanting  here 
All  those  finer  qualities 

Which  do  most  endear, 
Judging  like  the  blessed  Master, 

Full  of  chanty, 
In  his  heart  as  any  thinketh, 

Written  so,  is  he. 


„ 

NATIVE    WOOD-.  79 


A  TRIBUTE. 


Carve  out  an  ebony  staff, 

Slender  and  straight  and  strong; 
Give  it  all  skilful  touches 

That  to  thy  craft  belong ; 
Bring  to  its  rarest  polish, 

Crown  and  over  lay 
With  gold  of  exquisite  finish, 

And  suitable  quality. 

Chaste,  significant  symbols, 

Delicate  flowing  lines, 
Characters  bold  and  graceful 

Mingle  in  rare  design, 
That  when  the  radiant  present 

Into  the  shadow  roll, 
Indelible  imagery 

Be  graven  on  the  soul. 

Affection's  grateful  insignia, 

Merited  tribute  of  praise, 
Type  of  unfailing  support 

Through  all  the  coming  days, 
Graceful  wand  of  protection, 

Staunch  companion  and  friend, 
Ready  and  and  chosen  attendant, 

On,  to  the  journey's  end. 


80  T.KAKLKTS    FROM 


COX   A  MO  UK. 


I  loved  thee,  Fanny,  ore  thine  eye 
Kindled  expression  in  my  own, 

Yes,  loved  thee though  thouwert  not  nigh  — 
The  tie  is  only  stronger  grown. 

I  loved  because  I  funded  thee 
A  being  formed  to  gain  esteem, 

Fond  friendship's  beautiful  ideal, 
And  sight  but  verified  my  dream. 

'Twere  not  thy  lustrous  shining  orbs. 

Nor  meshes  of  thy  midnight  hair, 
Nor  smiles  like  dimpled  sunshine  sprent, 

That  made  me  willing  prisoner  ; 

And  not  alone  thy  form  of  grace 
And  winning  manner  made  appeal, 

But  more  enduring  loveliness 
Than  beauty's  features,  mutable; 

Nor  e'en  thy  music's  wondrous  spell, 

Innocent  witchery,  alone 
Could  tune  my  heart  so  perfectly 

Responsive  to  each  silvery  tone. 

I  looked  and  lo!    a  living  ray, 
From  some  interior  splendor  lit, 


NATIVE    WOODri.  81 


Flashed  through  thy  spirit  oriels 
And  fell,  reflected,  on  my  sight. 

1  listened  to  thy  thrilling  song, 
Pensive  or  joyous  as  thy  mood,    . 

And  knew  the  voice  but  bore  along 
The  strain  by  sentiment  subdued. 

Fine  harmony  within,  without, 
Character  suitably  expressed, 

Revealing  and  concealing  too, 
Humility,  crowning  the  rest. 

And  I  am  not  the  only  one         . 

Who  cherishes  a  love  for  thee; 
Affection's  shield  would  interpose 

To  keep  thee  always  sorrow-free. 

Many  will  yet  besiege  thy  heart 
And  gracious  privilege  prefer, 

While  others,  with  consummate  art, 
Ply  subtle  flatteries — beware! 

Happy,  if  thou  dost  e'er  retain 
The  steadfast  mind,  the  loyal  soul, 

Charms  blossoming  perpetually 
And  graces  never  growing  old. 


JL 


82  LEAK  LETS    KROM 


LULU. 

She  hears  not  the  soft  music  of  your  voice, 
As  lowly  bent  you  clasp  her  fragile  form 
With  murmurs  of  endearment.    The  hum 
Of  insect  life,  the  low  sweet  sigh  of  thousand 
Wind-harps  hath  no  sound  unto  her  ear; 
The  voice  of  fountains  and  the  song  of  birds 
Is  not  for  her.    Alike  love's  gently 
Modulated  notes  and  the  loud  trumpet 
Tone.    No  lisping,  words  of  artless  wonder 
Proclaim  the  mighty  miracles  thought  works 
Within  ;  no  sweet  and  loving  accents  come 
T-o-the  mother's  ear  i'rom  her  young  lips.    You 
Gaze  upon  her  with  a  double  tenderness 
That's  born  of  love  and  pity.    The  shadow 
On  her  life  doth  darken  yours.    Forbid 
To  hope  that  e'er  again  along  its  wonted 
Labyrinth  sweet  sounds  shall  echo,  but  mark  ! 
Life  is  not  all  a  sealed  book  unto  her 
Heart,  its  pleasure-avenues  are  not  all 
Closed.    Show  her  a  flower — doth  not  her  blue 
Eye  beam  with  bright  intelligence?  Point  out 
A  star — behold  !  what  wonder  sits  upon  her 
Childish  face — keenly  susceptible 
To  touch,  or  glance,  or  motion.    Your  little 
One  hath  been  near  to  the  gate  of  Heaven. 
How  know  we  what  unutterable  things 


XATIVK    WOOD*.  H-j 


Lie  'neath  this  web  of  gossamer  that  floats 
Between,    what   spirit-whispers    may    have 

come 

To  the  young  ear,  unreached  by  human  voice! 
The  delicate  sense  knoweth  innumerable 
Delights.     We  walk  the  fields  with  full-toned 
Orchestra  performing  Hallelujahs, 
From  whir  of  insect  wings  or  dry  leaves 
Rustling  to  the  Autumn  breath,  to  tender 
.  Tones  that  thrill  the  immortal  and  grand  old 
Melodies  which  set  the  spirit  quivering 
Like  harpstrings  to  the  skillful  touch,  the 

swift 

Gradations  rise.    Familiar  accents 
Of  voices  that  we  love,  inspiring  strains 
Cheering  the  multitude  to  Freedom's  strife 
And  Right's  inevitable  conquest — glad 
Notes  of  joy,  they  strike,  vibrate  and  echo 
Through  all  time,  like  the  rare  passages 
And  full  triumphant  choruses  of  the  old 
Masters,  stirring,  thrilling  alway. 

Yet  there 

Are  sounds  of  woe  and  mournful  cadences 
Which  draw  up  bitter  drops  from  spirit- wells. 
Ah !  who  can  know  the  pain  that  through  this 
Medium  distills,  who  calculate  the  wounds 
By  cruel  arrows  shot  along  this  vital 
Avenue  ?  Who  hears  the  one  must  sometimes 
Feel  the  other.    What  though  we  walk 
Unconsciously      through     green    enchanted 
glades, 


~r 

i    84  I/KAFLKTS    FROM 


And  over  smouldering    fires,  doth   not   tin- 
same 
Celestial  city  lie  beyond? 


AUTUMN. 


Autumn  leaves  are  falling,  falling 

With  a  sad  and  lonely  .sound, 
And  its  plaintive  voices  calling 

Hcho  mournfully  around. 

Autumn  winds  are  sighing,  sighing 
'Mid  the  dry  and  leafless  tnvs 

Hequiems  for  the  flowers  dying- 
Hark!  the  murmurous  soughing  brcc/.e. 

Autumn  birds  are  singing,  singing 

Cheerily  a  farewell  lay, 
With  their  blithe  notes  swiftly  winging 

Beyond  feaj*  of  Winter  day. 

Autumn   sunlight   streaming,  streaming 
Through  the  mist  veil  tenderly, 

As  if  gentle  hearted  Hummer 
Backward  smiled  regretfully. 

Autumn  shadows  stealing,  stealing 
Through  the  woodland,  o'er  the  plain, 

In  the  fading,  light  revealing 
Melancholy  brown  again. 

4-  4- 




NATIVE    WOODS.  85 


Autumn  whispers  breathing,  breathing 
Whence  we  know  not,  hovering 

Like  the  ghosts  of  days  departed, 
Hither,  thither,  wandering. 

Autumn  glory  fading,  fading 

Surely,  quietly  away, 
Gorgeous  tints  and  ripened  fruitage, 

Harbingers  of  swift  decay. 

May  our  Autumn  coming,  coming, 
Borrow  splendor  from  thy  sky, 

Prove  our  Festival  of  Harvest, 
Enriching  Futurity. 


'THERE  IS  A  TIME  TO  DIE.' 


I   would  not  die  when  Spring  with  vernal 
bloom 

Rules  the  bright  day ; 

Beauty  comes  forth  from  the  forsaken  toinb, 
Earth  is  too  fair  a  place,  too  genial  home, 

For  us  to  stray. 

I  would  not  die  when  ripe  midsummer's  here, 

With  golden  grain 

And  luscious  fruitage;  lesser  lives  appear 
In  full  perfection,  without  shade  or  tear 

Or  trace  of  pain. 


LEAFLETS    FKOM 

I  would  not  die  when  Winter's  heavy  tread 

Seals  up  the  ground  ; 
Too  chill  the  snowy  drapery  is  spread, 
And  lonesome -wiusds  bewail  the  lovely  dead 

With  hollow  sound. 

But  when  Autumn  zephyr.-  softly  sighing 

Lingering  good-bye, 

The  meek  flowers  uncomplainingly  are  dying, 
Rainbow  tinted  leaves  above  them  lying, 

'Tis  meet  to  die. 


A  LEAF  OF  LIFE. 


I  sat  alone, 

In  the  rapt  hush  of  early  Sabbath  hours, 
While  thought's  mysterious  spell,  as  a  cloud 
Wing  floating  in  April  sky,  came  brooding 
O'er  me.     Within  its  wave-like  folds  lay 
Shrouded  manifold  visions  of  the  life 
That  is,  and  to  my  questioning  gave  answer. 
I  saw  a  tender  bud  nursed  in  a 
Genial  soil,  spring  up  and  thrive,  until  bright 
Promise  of  its  bloom  peeped  forth  with 
Delicate  tint  from  the  protecting  leaflets. 
Then  I  said,  "How  beautiful!"  but  while  my 
Eye  sought  its  first  bursting,  lo!  upon  the 
Stem  it  hung,  blasted  and  withered.    Then 
There  rose  the  vision  of  a  child,  fair  as 


XATIVK    WOODS.  81 


My  brief  lived  rose  bud,  and  she  who  led 
Along  life's  path  the  little  one  had 
Early  learned  the  ministry  of  sorrow. 
A  holy  link  bound  fast  to  the  invisible 
Was  the  dear  child  she  cherished,  but  there 

came 

A  summons  of  surprise,  and  lo!  from  her 
Fond  cl-isp  earth's  stricken  daughter  saw  a 

cherub 
Form  mount  Heaven-ward  ;  then   my  heart 

swelled  with  strange 

Bitterness,  and  questioned,  "Why  is  it  thus, 
My  Father?  Twice  hath  been  snatched  away 
The  young,'the  lovely,  and  their  place  is  found 
No  more  on  earth."  Then  in  the  mist-wreath 
Floating  before  rny  sight,  came  written  words 
Of  fire,  "  'Tis  thine  to  trust,  be  still  and  know 
That  I  am  God." 

I  saw  a  noble  tree, 

The  strength  and  pride'of  a  young  forest,  while 
Beneath  its  verdant  boughs  flourished  young 
Tender  saplings;  but  the  Autumn  winds 
Scattered  its  leaf  robe,  and  the  earth  drank 
Its  life  blood,  and   when  Spring  came  again 

•  with 

The  soft  whispers  in  the  woodland,  and 
The  yearly  miracle  passed  upon  all 
The  trees,  no  wooing  breath,  no  weeping  sky, 
No  song,  no  blossom  won  the  tree  back 
To  life.    Anon,  I  saw  one  in  the  prime 
Of  life,  around  whose  brow  circled  the  glory 


8S  l.KAKr-KTS    FROM 


Of  a  nol>le  manhood.     His  an  honored 
Name,  and  worthily.     Domestic  joys  thick 
Clust'ring  round  his   life  endeared  its  every 
Moment.     Young   eyes   sought    his   for  gui- 
dance. 

Every  where  he  trod  hearts  rendered  up 
The  homage  due  true  nobleness  of  soul. 
But  like  the  forest  tree  in  all  its  strength 
And  beauty,  seared  and  dead,  he  too  received 
The  stern  decree  that  comes  to  all.     My  heart 
Sought  strength    to  murmur,    but  a  mighty 

Power 

Restrained  and  thrilled  through  all  my  soul, 
"Be  still  and  know  that  I  am  God." 

I  stood 

And  gazed  upon  the  western  sky,  as 
Upward  rolled  in  massive  shape  and  angry 
Hue,  heaven's  cloud  artillery.     Dread 
Silence  reigned,  while  from  beneath  the  vast 
Horizon,  stole  the  masses  up  With  dark 
Or  fiery  coloring,  till  the  whole  had 
Borrowed  the  fierce  lurid  glow,  and 
Frowning,  bent,  as  if  to  lave  earth's 
Forehead  with  a  fire  baptism,     i  had  gazed, 
Awe-struck,  until  the  scene  became  for  my 
Weak  faith  too  terrible,  then  I  turned 
Aside  with  closed  eyes  to  hide  its  painful 
Memory  in  darkness.    But  to  my  ear 
Borne  on  the  tempest's  breath   there  came  a 

Voice, 
Saying,  "Be  still  and  know  that  1  am  God." 


NATIVE    WOODS.  89 


My  soul  bowed  to  the  stern  rebuke,  and 
A  more  tranquil  frame  came  o'er  me. 

Thns  oft, 
Do  we  weak  creatures  doubt  our  Father's 

|io\\  er 
O'er  all  that  He  has  made.    When  rage  life's 

storms 

About  our  pathway  dark  and  drear,  we  fail 
To  cast  the  soul's  strong  anchor;  then  doth 

come 

Again  this  same  mysterious  Presence, 
Saying,  "Be  still  and  know  that  I  am  God." 
While 'mid  the  din  of  strife,  calmness  succeeds. 


GONE  HOME. 


"And  I  heard  a  voice  from  heaven  saying  unto  me,  Write,  bles- 
sed are  the  dead  which  die  in  the  Lord." 

Gohe  home!  his  life  work  done, 
His  forehead  crowned  with  years, 

He  left  at  set  of  sun 
This  lowly  vale  of  tears. 

Home!  thus  at  close  of  day 
Turn  the  tired  laborer's  feet, 

Nor  heed  the  toilsome  way, 
Thy  dear  delights  to  meet. 


90 


Home !  on  a  foreign  shore, 
How  the  lone  pilgrim  hails 

'Mid  Ocean's  wildest  roar 
The  fleet  returning  sails. 

Yet  what  is  home  below 
Its  joy — its  bliss— its  love, 

To  the  glad  rest  they  know 
Who  have  gone  home  above! 

Gone  home!  yes,  peacefully, 
With  a  calm  Christian  faith, 

Whose  mighty  power  can  be 
Triumphant  over  death. 

The  Eternal  City  gates 
Stand  open  night  and  day 

While  enter  joyfully 
The  heavenly  family. 

At  most,  a  few  fleet  years 
Measured  out  tenderly, 

A  little  space  for  tears, 
And  then — Eternity! 


NATIVE    WOODS.  91 


-s- 


MEMORIES. 


Written  for  a  friend. 

Roll  up  the  curtain  grey 

From  our  sacred  household  shrine. 
Sixteen  circles  ago  to-day 

I  first  called  Lizzie  mine, 
The  precious  glimmer  of  Heaven, 

Through  the  pangs  of  motherhood, 
Revealed  the  sweet  assurance 

The  gift  was  God-bestowed. 

Over  those  luminous  years 

Elysian  memories  sleep, 
From  their  touching,  sad  review 

I  turn  away  and  weep, 
Taking  up  so  tenderly 

Little  mementoes  of  her, 
Newly  embalming  them 

To  hallow  another  year. 

Three  chastened  twelvemonths  back 

We  have  journeyed,  sorrowing, 
The  oft-trodden  rugged  track 

Of  human  suffering ; 
Three  blissful,  wondering  seasons 

Lizzie,  enraptured,  sits 
Where  no  knell  of  passing  years 

Enters  the  pearly  gate 


»» 

i    92  LEAFLETS   PROM 


June  is  here — skies  are  bright-— 

The  garden  is  green  and  gay, 
With  reverent  step  we  traverse 

Its  quiet  haunts  to-day; 
Once  her  light  foot-fall  pressed 

This  verdant  velvet  sod, 
Who  weareth  angelic  form 

In  the  Paradise  of  God. 

<  )ver  the  shortened  span 

Of  Time's  weary  bridge  we  go, 
Strong  in  Faith  and  rich  in  Mope, 

Never  to  rest  below ; 
Home  is  where  our  treasure  is, 

Lizzie  has  gone  before ; 
'Tis  but  little  till  we  touch 

The  golden  thither  Shore. 


TO  MY  FRIEND  KLIZA. 


Good-bye,  sweet  friend,  my  heart  goes  mus- 
ing backward 
Through  all  the  checkered  past  since  tirst 

we  nut ; 

This  parting  word   unnumbered  scenes  awa- 
kens 

Whose  living  presence  throng  my  memory 
yet. 


NATIVE    WOODS.  93 


Back  to  our  rosy  girlhood,  gay  and  careless, 
Speeds  the  swift  thought-wing  its  unequal- 

ed  flight, 

Once  more  we  revel  in  those  golden  moments 
Which    vanished,    dream-like,    from     our 
waking  sight. 

While  dearer  loves,  perchance,  have  made 
their  dwelling 

In  our  full  hearts,  abiding  fresh  and  bright, 
The  links  of  olden  friendship  bind  together 

The  little  circle  scattered  far  to-night. 

Thy  path  hath  led  through  weary  vales  of 
sorrow, 

Alike  through  meadows  beautiful  and  fair, 
But  sorrow's  baptism  made  thy  spirit  stronger 

Life's  blessedness  to  know,  its  cross  to  bear. 

Thou  goest  from  our  midst,  ray  gentle  sister, 
With  cheerful  heart  life's  mission  to  fulfill, 
Trusting  the  Hand  that  led  thee  through  the 

shadow 

To  bless  the  sunshine  with   its  guidance 
still. 

'Mid  other  ecenes  and  circles  thou  wilt  mingle, 
Marty  a  league  from  this  thy  girlhood's 

home; 

Oh!  cherish  sacredly  thine  early  friendships, 
Whute'er  new  blessings  to  thy  heart  may 
come. 


!H  LKAFLKTS    FIIOM 

Our  love  go  with  thee  with  its  fond  out-gush- 

ingi 

Our  kindly  thoughts  and  prayers  all  freely 

given  ; 

We  trust  the  circle'here  so  widely  sundered 
Will  know  a  better  unitv  in  Heaven. 


YOUNG  CLIMBERS. 


Written  (:>r   a  i>riir.ary  excrclM. 

l)on't  you  know  when  merry  May 

Practices  her  magic  art, 
Thickly  from  each  tiny  spray 

Little  folded  buds  upstart? 
From  each  beam  of  sunlight, 

From  each  crystal  drop, 
Fashioning  a  viewless  stair 

They  climb  lightly  up. 

.So  the  little  human  buds 

Precious  germs  of  thought  contain, 
Struggling  up  by  Wisdom's  light 

And  Instruction's  early  rain; 
Step  by  step  the  rising  grade 

Of  the  lofty  science  hill, 
Gained  by  toil  of  tender  feet 

Guided  patiently  and  well. 


^  '    ___ 

XATIVE   WOODS.  95 


Nature  in  material  realm 

Teachers  for  her  children  find*  ; 
Light  and  heat  and  gentle  airs 

Vie  with  sterner  discipline, 
Talk  of  inner  growth  and  strength, 

Talk  of  upward  tendency, 
Till  the  supple  graceful  twig 

Stands  the  tall  majestic  tree. 

We.  are  little  human  twigs, 

Teachers  dear,  we  love  you  all, 
May  your  smiles  and  kind  restraints 

Help  us  grow  erect  and  tall, 
In  the  fertile  soil  of  Truth 

Striking  deeper,  firmer  root, 
Spreading  out  immortal  rtrins, 

Dropping  golden  fruit. 


LITTLE   ROSA. 


'Mid  the  din  and  bustle 

Of  the  crowded  street, 
Little  Rosa  wandered 

On,  with  faltering  feet, 
Often  rudely  jostled, 

Ready  to  despair, 
Cruelly  repulsed 

In  her  modest  prayer. 




I    96  LEAFLETS   FROM 


Through  the  lanes  and  alleys 

Wending  day  by  day 
To  the  cheerless  cellar, 

Where  her  mother  lay, 
Oft  in  pain  and  weariness, 

Sometimes  full  of  glee 
At  some  blessed  stranger's 

Heavenly  charity. 

Upon  little  Rosa, 

Brave  and  patient  child, 
All  those  days  of  darkness 

Jesus  looked  and  smiled, 
Numbered  every  sorrow, 

Treasured  every  tear, 
Made  the  helpless  orphan 

His  peculiar  care. 

Rosa  now  is  folded 

To  the  generous  heart 
Of  enlarged  affection, 

Safe  from  fear  and  want ; 
Rosa  sweetly  patient, 

Wearing  fresher  bloom, 
Is  the  very  angel 

Of  that  happy  home. 


NATIVE    WOODS.  97 


TRYST. 


Your  path  lies  over  the  hay  field 

l':i<]cr  tho  sunny  sky, 
•  WiMi  the  fresh  mown  grass  to  sweeten 

Labor's  monotony, 
And  mine  in  the  shady  dwelling, 

With  the  lowlier  employ 
Of  little  household  ministries 

Which  swell  the  common  joy. 

Thus  each  day  is  enriched 

The  granary  of  Hume, 
And  the  sheaves  are  bright  and  heavy 

When  evening  and  absent  come; 
We  drink  from  one  golden  chalice  — 

Freely  and  tenderly  share 
Experience,  bitter  or  blessed, 

Joy  or  sorrow  or  care. 

Your  path  is  not  always  even, 

Your  sky  not  always  clear, 
And  sometimes  in  my  horizon 

Threatening  clouds  appear  ; 
Over  life's  troublesome  stones 

Affection's  mosses  cling, 
And  the  jar  is  somewhat  broken 

By  their  velvet  cushioning. 


4- 


98  LEAFLKTS    K1IOM 

Let  us  gather  the  honey  of  life 

To  sweeten  bread  of  toil, 
And  give  thanks  for  the  wayside  roses 

After  the  day's  turmoil. 


ON  A  GIFT  OF  FLOWERS. 


I  thank  thee,  gentle  friend,  these  fresh,  young 
flowers 

Are  to  my  heart  an  offering  pure  and  sweet ; 
They  bear  me  back  to  fair  and  festive  bowers 

With   their  swift  wings  of  light  and  foot- 
steps fleet ; 
I  gaze  into  their  folded  beauty-depths, 

Inhale  their  breath  of  perfume  in  its  flow, 
And  lo!  is  mirrored  there,  a  glimpse  of  life 

Transporting  me  to  scenes  of  long  ago. 

I've  scanned  inquiringly  each  budding  rose, 

Seeking  oftimes  to  read  its  hidden  lore, 
And  sometimes  the  soft  petals  will  unclose, 

Blooming  far  sweeter  than  they  were  before, 
And  to  my  spirit's  ear  will  gently  steal 

Low  murmurs,  musically  flowing, 
Imparting  ecstacy  we  only  feel. 

And,  ere  we  find  expression,  going. 

There's  other  bloom  as  eloquent  as  this, 
Each  hath  a  language  that  is  all  its  own  ; 


•r  - 

NATIVE    WOODS.  99 


Some  cherish  fondly  the  gay  sunbeam's  kiss, 
Breathing  their  life  out  as  the  day  wears  OH, 
While  others  with  their  drooping  heads  bow- 
ed low 
Hide    their  young    wealth    through    rosy 

morning  light, 
Nursing  bright  dew-drops  in  their  bosom's 

snow, 

And  give  their,  wondrous   beauty   to  the 
night. 

And  each  appeals  to  something  within  us, 

Some  delicate,  subtle,  spiritual  sense, 
Methinks  they  stimulate  unbounded  trust, 

Making  us  conscious  of  unworthiness ; 
Anon,  they  whisper  merrily  and  low 

Bewitching,  fascinating  words  of  mirth, 
Wooing  the  smile  unto  the  faded  brow 

And   with  bright  sunshine  ever  clothing 
earth. 

I  never  take  a  flower  from  those  I  love 

But  gratitude  arises  in  my  heart — 
I  would  the  gift  of  lovely  gracious  things 

Some  blessedness  reciprocal  impart. 
Thus,  I  have  woven  for  thee  a  simple  lay 

Out  of  the  blossoms  which  thou  gavest  me; 
They  very  soon  will  fade  and  fade  away, 

Not  so  their  sweet  and  sacred  memory. 


100  LEAFLETS    FROM 


"I  WILL  NOT  LEAVE  YOU  COMFORT- 
LESS, I  WILL  COME  TO  YOU." 


Be  comforted,  my  .sister— wo  are  not 
As  drifting  fragments  oii  a  changeful  sea; 

Life's  stormy  billows  know  the  peaceful  voice 
Of  Him  who  hushed  the  waves  of  Galilee. 

Be  comforted,  my  sister— it  was  love 
Withdrew  the  human  shape,  the  fleshly  arm 

Beyond  your  reach  just  now,  yet  lean  on  One 
Which  interposes  between  you  and  harm. 

Be  comforted,  my  sister— there  is  not 
One  heartache  you  must  cover,  or  one  sigh 

Stifle,  lest  it  should  grieve  this  perfect  love 
Which  folds  you  in  its  boundless  sympathy. 

When  you  are  faint  with  weakness,  blind 
with  tears, 

'Neath  each  day's  burden  just  about  to  fall, 
It  gathers  tenderly  you,  yours  and  his, 

Saying,  "Be  of  good  courage,  tell  me  all. 

"Before  your  lives  had  rounded  to  this  plan 
Before  these  lesser  loves  knew  blessed  dawn, 

I  held  you  fast  within  infinite  love- 
Nothing's  superfluous,  nothing  is  gone. 


NATIVE    WOODS. 


101 


"I  measure  out  your  sorrows,  while  I  hold 
The  hearts  that  bleed  close  unto  Mine  that 
bled, 

And  mysteries  of  bliss  I  keep  in  store; 
Only  believe,  my  love,  he  comforted." 


LITTLE  NELLIE. 


Yt>iiii};(-st  MUSLIM  in  a  g.mk-ii  on   IVarl  Stn -i-t. 

Welcome,  little  Nellie, 
To  this  world  of  ours, 
While  'tis  bright  with  verdure, 

Radiant  with  flowers, 
Though  it  is  not  Eden, 
Reli'-s  of  lost  bliss 
Coming  down  the  ages 

Linger  until  tiiis. 

Welcome,  little  "Nellie, 

Like  a  flower  cup 

In  its  tiny  wrappings, 

Life  is  folded  up 
In  the  wee  form,  sleeping 
At  a  soothing  tone, 
Or  with  wide-eyed  wonder 

Conning  the  unknown. 

Welcome,  little  Nellie, 
May  these  untried  powers 
Healthfully  expanding 
A'll  the  sunny  hours, 


fc-  I  .  *«< 

102  LEAFLETS    FROM 


Bring  a  wealth  of  sweetness 
And  perpetual  blooin 
More  precious  than  rose* 
To  enrich  thy  home. 

As  mysteriously 
Every  little  child 
Unites  the  immortal 

With  the  sin-defiled, 
We  ask  a  renewing, 
An  impress  of  love, 
(Stamp  of  innocence 

liecog nixed  above. 

For  except  we  enter 

The  blest  family 

With  the  faith  of  children, 

And  humility, 
We  may  stand  inquiring 
Who  is  greatest  there, 
And  miss  the  lowly  place 

It  is  bliss  to  share. 


Through  the  temples  of  the  soul 
Echo  words  of  pleasant  cheer, 

Earnest,  joyful  words,  bequeathing 
Blessings  on  the  opening  year. 


NATIVE    WOODS.  103 


May  a  mild,  delightful  Springtime 
Enrich  all  thy  fertile  field, 

And  the  golden  Summer  circles 
Glad  abundance  freely  yield. 

Clusters  of  the  choicest  fruitage, 
Loaded  shrub  and  vine  and  tree — 

Autumn's  ministers  conferring 
Measureless  delight  on  thee. 

Winter  vigorous  and  hoary 
Donning  then  his  jewelled  crest, 

Down  its  last  declivity 
Safe  conduct  the  year  to  rest. 


ORANGE  BLOSSOMS. 


This  rising  sun  heralds  an  era  in  your 
Mutual  lives.    You  stand  to  pledge  this  holy 
Faith  to  one  another  with  mature  judgment, 
Character  rounded  by  experience. 
Be  yours  the  Eden  bliss  of  love— one 
In  name,  in  heart,  in  purpose,  enriching  com- 
mon 
Store  with  double  gifts.    Be  yours  success  in 

best 

Endeavor,  and  heavenly  discipline,  His 
Image  to  develop,  who  glorified 
These  daily  paths  and  common  ministries. 
Be  yours  the  joy  of  perfect  peace,  whether 


L.KAFLKTS    FKOM 

• 

Beneath  the  blue  of  this  bright  firmament 
You  walk  green  Vallies,  among  the  lilies, 
Or  on    the  storm-crowned    heights,   content 

that  He 

Shall  choose,  who  sits  above  I  lie  stars  and  sees 
The  end  from  the  beginning,  happy  in  one 
Another,  safe  in  the  strong  pavilion  of  Hi- 
Love. 


A  (J(K)DLY    VI NK. 


(/lusters  I  brought  from  afar, 
(Not  from  the  valley  of  Eshcol,  i 

But  in  rare  bloom  and  sweetness 
Fitting  a  beautiful  rival. 

They  climbed  sun-kissed— dew-laden, 
Up  to  their  highest  perfection, 

Hanging  their  graceful  drapery 
Over  their  ruder  protection. 

Transferred  with  delicate  kindness 
Generous  as  their  rich  juices — 

I  prefer  assumption  of  debt 
To  the  freedom  which  refuses, 

For  in  my  memory  rises 
A  tender  and  true  old  saying 

Concerning  a  cup  of  cold  water, 
With  a  promise  of  repaying. 


* 


NATIVE    WOODS.  105 


So  I  rejoice  in  my  clusters, 

Fruit  of  the  valley  of  promise, 
From  store  of  whispering  lessons 
Meekly  and  gratefully  cull  this. 

There  is  a  holy  ambition 

Aspiring,  in  thought  and  action, 
To  lift  by  the  rare  elevation 

Of  virtues'  and  graces'  attraction. 

If  out  of  life's  season,  only, 
Of  blessing  or  benefit,  grow 

One  beautiful  bounteous  cluster, 
We  cannot  its  estimate  know. 


'IX    HOPE  OF    A  GLORIOUS  IMMOR- 
TALITY." 


Fear  not  the  Winter  storm  ; 

Snow  cannot  chill 
Or  harm  this  beautiful  clay, 
Our  little  freed  immortal 

Went  up  the  shining  way. 

Coverlet  softer,  whiter 

Than  daintiest  couch 
Flutters  down,  from  above, 
To  fold  with  blossoms  of  Summer 

Sweeter  blossoms  of  love. 


_ 

106  LEAFLETS    KKOM 


Sure  as  earth  shall  restore 

And  clothe  again 

The  buried  flowers, 
The  blessed  Summer  of  God 
Shall  renew  in  life  and  grace 

This  buried  germ  of  ours. 

So  let  sharp  sorrow  be 
Softened  by  Faith, 
Brightened  by  Hope, 
The  bliss  of  rich  possession, 
Of  treasure  beyond  loss 
Tenderly  buoying  up. 


"THEY   SHALL   WALK    WITH   MM   IX 
WHITE." 


There  came  to  me  on  the  low,  soft,  night 
Wind  a  whisper  from  the  spirit  land,  breath- 
ing 

In  accents  sweet,  "Another  snow-white  form 
Glides  by  the  stream  of  lite;  another  voice 
Is  added  to  the  angel  band  ;  another 
Harp  attuned  in  Heaven." 

Tread  softly  as  you 

Pass,  gay,  busy  throng,  hush  ye  the  careless 
Words  upon  your  lips,  let  not  a  thought 
Of  mirth  disturb  the  present  hour,  for  Death 
Is  here,  ye  may  look  on  and  wonder.    The  old 


.;.  -4 

NATIVE    WOODS.  107 


Sink  down  calmly  to  rest,  but  when  the  death 
Damp  steals  upon  the  brow  of  youth,  or 
Childhood's  beauty  fadeth  at  hi*  touch,  ye 
May  well  pause  a  moment.    I  have  seen  tin- 
rose 

On  fair  cheeks  brighten,  till  the  rich  tint  was 
All  too  beautiful,  and  then  Death  came  and 
With  his  icy  fingers  stole  it,  and  left 
His  pallor  in  the  place  where  it  had  been 
The  fairest.    I  have  seen  the  eye  beam  with 
A  lustre  borrowed  from  on  high,  but 
Even  while  I  gazed,  an  angel  stooped  and 
Bore  it  back  unto  its  native  skies.     Then 
I  wept,  until  there  came  this  sweet  voice 
Unto  me,  and  ye  have  heard  it,  saying, 
"Another    snow-white  form    glides   by    the 

stream 

Of  life;  another  voice  is  added 
To  the  angel  band  ;  another  harp  attuned, 
In  Heaven." 

A  fair  young  girl  sat  in  the  place 
Of  prayer,  with  thoughtful  brow  and  willing- 
heart. 

She  had  begun  to  sit  at  Jesus'  feet, 
With  spirit  meek,  in  her  young  morning,  but 
The  Father  saith,  "My  child,  come  home, 

earth's  strife 

Is  not  for  thee,"  and  lo !  He  sent  His  angel 
And  took  her  from  our  midst.    Then  tlrere 

came 
To  me  these  tidings,  and  I  bowed  my  head 


-I- 


108  LKAFI.KTS    FROM 

And  wept  in  bitterness  of  spirit,  and 
Even  then  came  this  same  voice  unto  me  ; 
Have  ye  not  heard  it,  saying,  "Another 
Snow-white  form  glides  by  the  stream  of  life 
Another  voice  is  added  to  the  angel 
Band;  another  harp  attuned  in   Heaven"? 


SNOW. 


Emblem  of  Purity 
Down-dropping  silently 

With  delicate  grace, 
Hiding  the  barren  earth  imbrowned, 
Softening  angular  boughs  uncrowned 
Since  Autumn's  flaming  carnival, 

With  cool  soft  touch 
Fall  upon  me. 

Robe  of  fleeting  beauty 
Doing  humble  duty 

'Neath  defiling  feet, 
Protecting  sleeping  flower  roots, 
Insuring  lives  of  embryo-fruits, 
Losing  self  in  thy  ministry, 

With  cleansing  touch 
Fall  upon  me. 

Emblem  of  Charity 
Covering  gracefully 

With  spotless  mantle 
Uneven  ways— unsightly  things— 


* 

T 

NATIVE    WOODS.  109 


Leveling,  smoothing,  sparkling  wings 
Floating  white  crystals  in  waste  places, 
With  gentle  touch 
Fall  upon  me. 

Dazzle  critical  sight 
With  reflected  light 

From  the  sun's  glad  face, 
Winged  presence  of  Purity, 
Beautiful  spirit  of  Charity, 
Descending  widely,  perceptibly, 

With  hallowed  touch 
Fall  upon  me. 


ODE   TO   1859. 


Thou  hast  taken  thy  place  with  olden  time, 

Thou  youngest  of  the  years, 
Thy  brief  days  numbered,  nevermore 

Thy  friendly  face  appears. 

We  knew  thee  first  in  thine  infancy, 

Cradled  'mid  winter  snows, 
With  the  bleak  wind  wailing  drearily 

Thy  first  young  morning  rose. 

We  were  mourning  then  the  steadfast  friend, 

Who,  dying,  gave  thee  birth, 
And  subdued  voices  welcomed  thee, 

A  stranger,  unto  earth. 

But  thy  childhood  grew  to  laughing  skies 
Of  glad  and  leafy  June, 


110  LEAFI.KTS    FKOM 

And  roses  wreathed  thy  lovely  brow 
Ere  morning  waxed  to  noon. 

Thou  hast  led  through  vallies  green  and  fair, 

By  waters  still  and  swiet, 
O'er  barren  peaks,  by  rocky  isles 

Where  stormy  surges  beat. 

Part  of  our  throbbing  life  thou  hast  borne* 

Away  on  noiseless  wings, 
Scattered  fragments  of  waste  and  loss 

Mingled  with  precious  things. 

A  few  small  trophies  of  victory, 

By  patient  effort  won, 
And  numerous  scars  as  recompense 

For  earnest  warfare  done. 

Thy  discipline  of  our  errant  souls, 

Thy  strong,  attractive  force 
Toward  virtue,  mark  thy  origin, 

Proclaim  thy  noble  source. 

Indissoluble  our  history, 

Pronounced  and  sealed  thy  fate, 

We  bow  to  the  inevitable 
With  reverent  regret. 


REMONSTRANCE. 


Going!  this  must  not — cannot  be; 
My  heart  cries  out  impetuous  denial, 
My  Muse  refuses  utterly  a  song, 
With  one  low  wail  of  bitter  lamentation 


•f  4 

NATIVE    WOODS.  Ill 


Sits  behind  the  scenes  and,  tremulous, 
Surveys  the  slender  thread  of  hope  whereon 
Relentless  Fate  such  dear  delight  hath  hung. 
Speeds   memory   back   these  fleeting  weeks 

agone ; 

Rising  up  bright,  like  morning  out  of  mist, 
The  clear  shining  of  thy  consistent  life 
Opens  the  panorama;  rhy  Sabbath 
Ministries,  revered  and  hallowed 
With  the  outspoken  gospel ;  thy  fearless 
Spirit  scorning  to  stoop  to  level 
Of  expedience;  thy  tender  love 
Embracing  all  mankind,  betokening 
Thy  noble  lineage;  thy  sympathy 
Seeking  out  sorrowing  hearts,  pouring  in  balm, 
Weeping  with  those  who  weep  ;  thy   words 

of  warm 

Encouragement  deep  sunk  like  shafts  of  light 
In  thought's  dark   mine,  gloomy  sometime 

and  sunless. 

I  tremble  not  for  thee,  for  thou  wilt  walk 
Secure;  thy  conscious  manhood  impervious 
To  stain  of  creature  worship,  calling  all 
Thy  peers,  in  God-given  right,  yet  raising  all 
By  the  pure  baptism  thy  example  proves. 
Wheel  back,  ye  hasty  moments,  if  so  soon 
Glad  welcome  yields  to  mournful  lest  farewell, 
Helpless  and  dissonant.     Ely  to  thy  knees, 
My  soul,  and  patient  wait  the  revelations 
Of  another  morn. 


112  L,KAFM-:TS  FKOM 

LOOKING  FORWARD. 


Looking  forward — looking  forward 

With  a  vague  unrest; 
How  the  dim,  uncertain  future 

Fills  the  human  breast! 

Ever  waiting  for  the  morrow 

With  Hope's  halo  crowned, 
Slighting  blessings  of  the  present, 

Casting  jewels  down. 

Looking  forward  to  a  phantom, 
False,  perchance,  as  fair, 

Kvery  eager  grasp  eluding- 
Vanishing  in  air. 

In  the  shadow  idly  waiting 

For  a  golden  beam  ; 
Noble  present  work  despising, 

Still  content  to  dream. 

Looking  forward — looking  forward 

From  the  darkest  night, 
Still  the  watch-fires  of  the  spirit 

Keep  its  altar  bright. 

Soul,  then  know  thy  wondrous  mission  ; 

Rise  all  glorified ; 
With  the  misty  dreams  of  fancy 

Be  not  satisfied. 

Looking  forward — looking  upward 

With  a  single  eye, 
Sowing  for  the  heavenly  harvest 

Coming  by  and  by. 


X  A  T I V  E    W  ( )O  DS .  '  11  3 


PllAYKB  OF  THE   DYING. 


"Dear  Lord,  unto  thyself 
My  spirit  take  to-day, 

Weary  and  worn  this  frame, 
I  long1  to  fly  away. 

The  morn  is  passing  fair, 
The  Spring-time  beautiful, 

HutO!  for  heavenly  air 
Panteth  my  waiting  soul. 

Earth's  vain  and  transient  joys 

Receding  fast  I  see, 
Heaven  with  its  perfect  bliss 

Dazzles  and  fills  my  eye. 

Ye  deep  and  tender  loves 
This  lower  life  hath  known, 

Loosen  your  mighty  grasp, 
I  pine  to  be  at  home. 

Come  then,  my  blessed  Lord, 
Trusting,  I  wait  for  thee, 

Oh  !  speak  the  welcome  word 
That  sets  my  spirit  free. 

Yet,  if  thy  holy  will 

Be  further  wrought  in  me. 
Oh  !  let  me  suffer  on, 

And  suffer  patiently." 

Upward  on  wings  of  love 
Floated  this  last  request, 

And  ere  the  day  was  o'er 
She  entered  into  rest. 


-I- 


114,  .LEAFLETS    FROM 

PILGRIMS. 


These  homes  of  ours 
Are  MS  a  wayside  inn.     We  turn  aside 
For  food  and  rest — exchange  our  dusty 
( iarnients,  and  our  weary  mood,  for  cool,  fresh 
Raiment  and  delightful  talk— accept 
Numerous  sweet  courtesies — compare 
Our  notes  of  travel — discourse  with  bright 
Anticipation  of  the  journey's  end  ; 
Hence  oft  the  scene  of  tender  partings  as 
Our  several  paths  diverge.     While  some 
Ascend  steep  mountain-heights  whose  grand 

broad  sweep 

Reward  the  expectant  eye,  others 
Pursue  the  velvet  meadows,  and  others, 
Still  trim  the  light  sail  to  cross  the  mystic- 
River  whose  chill  depths  each  must  essay 
Alone.    These  last  upon  the  brink  oft  shine 
Transfigured,  and  words  like  these  their  loving 
Legacy. 

lam  leaning  to  the  border 

Of  the  river  dark, 
I  can  hear  the  rush  of  waters 

Round  rny  little  bark 
Mingling  with  your  tender  voices 

And  the  Sabbath  chime- 
Sounds  the  faintest— sounds  the  sweetest 

From  the  shore  of  time. 

I  am  leaning  to  the  river; 
Clearer  than  before 


XATIVK    WOODS.  lli) 

Grows  my  vision  while  I  keep 

An  eye  on  either  shore. 
Here  a  mother,  husband,  brother, 

Clinging  tearfully — 
There  a  father,  brother,  cherub, 

Plainly  beckon  me. 

I  am  leaning  to  the  river, 

Spreads  my  fluttering  sail, 
From  yon  radiant  country 

Wafts  a  favoring  gale. 
They  are  waiting — hear  them  calling — 

J  would  comfort  you, 
But  the  waves  o'erwhelm  me,  ,. 

Drown  my  last  "adieu." 

Look  !  beloved,  o'er  the  river 

Through  the  glass  of  faith, 
See  the  white-robed  company 

Who  have  conquered  death ; 
See  your  mighty  risen  Savior. 

Pilgrims!  travel  on 
Joyful  for  His  resurrection 

Promises  your  own. 


MUSINGS. 


How  sweetly  float  the  murmurs  of  his  voice 
Through  these  lone  rooms  ;  I  hush  my  breath 

to  listen, 

As  one  in  dim  aisles  wandering,  strains 
The  eager  ear  to  catch  another  footfall. 
Then  vividly  rises  a  vision 


4 


*;- 


110  LEAFLETS    FKOM 

Of  the  guileless  boy  with  his  bro;id  open 
lirow,  his  clear  and  earnest   eye,  and    bright 

lips 

Eloquent  with  holy  truth,  fresh 
From  the  sa"red  page.     Snatches  of  song, 
Manifold  tender  words  aiyl  words  prophetic 
Throng  upon  me  now,  while  through  the  mist 
My  dim  eyes  veiling,  two  slightclasped  hands 
Send  up  for  me  their  mute  petition. 
Peace,  my  heart!  the  young  disciple 
With  elastic  step  trod  the  sweet  meadows 
And  the  gentle  slopes,  but  ere  the  path 
Wound  up  the  rugged  hills  a  cloud  receiyed 
Him  from  onr  sight. 

No  more  shall  cloud  obscure 
His  sky,  rude  blast  no  longer  chill,  nor  tem- 
pest 
More  appall,  nor  .sin  pollute,  nor  death 

O'ercome. 

The  sunbeams  stream  in  at  the  windows 
As  of  old,  the  glad  Sping  hastens, 
And  returning  leaves  shall  clothe  the  trees 
He  loved,  now  reaching  out  their  arms  in 

silent, 
Solemn    mourning.     Flowers    shall     bloom, 

birds  sing, 

And  fragrant  air  float  through  the  open  door 
And  light  feet  come  and  go,  while  we, 
With  chastened  hearts,  bend  to  life's  burdens, 
Or  refresh  our  sinking  faith  with  heavenly 
Communion.    This  is  not  home— we  take  our 
Pilgrim-staff,  nor  loiter  here.    On  !    On  ! 


NATIVE    WOODS.  117 


Our  city  hath  no  need  of  sun— the  tree 

( )f  life  stands  broad  and  beautiful 

By  the  clear  river.     All  the  inhabitants 

Are  clad  in  radiant  white,  and  wear, 

As  shining  signet,  the  blest  heavenly  Name. 


"IT  IS  WELL  WITH  THE  CHILD." 

I  think  it  over  and  over, 
My  sister  stricken  and  lone, 

Missing  the  household  treasures 
Of  brighter  months  agone, 

These  weary  dispirited  days 
You  walk  the  cheerful  room, 

Or  sit  by  the  sunny  window- 
It  does  not  seem  like  home. 

I  know  what  beautiful  presence 

Lightened  your  morning  care, 
And  the  little  empty  rocker 

Beside  your  easy  chair 
Tells  its  daily  touching  story 

Of  bitter  and  helpless  pnin, 
Which  the  tender  All-seeing  Eye 

Watches  again  and  again. 

Do  you  think,  my  suffering  sister, 
That  He  whose  human  tears 

Fell  at  the  grave  of  Lazarus 
Unmindful  is  of  yours? 

No !  into  the  heart's  recesses 
Barred  to  our  dearest  love 


118  LEAFLETS  FROM 


His  messengers  find  entrance, 
Commissioned  from  above. 

How  oft  in  the  on-coming  years 

You  list  the  tempest  roar, 
And  riding  the  angry  breakers, 

Bless  God  they've  reached  the  shore 
How  often  beholding  the  wreck 

Of  lovely  promising  life, 
Even  rejoice  with  trembling 

Your  babes  escaped  the  strife. 

Or  day  by  day  in  constant 

Avoidless  war  within, 
When  battling  single-handed 

Each  for  herself  must  win, 
When  driven  to  Heaven's  armory 

Girded  for  strong  defence, 
You  can  triumph  in  the  thought 

Of  their  deliverance. 

These  weak  hearts  sadly  falter — 

These  doubling  spirits  quail — 
Let  us  cling  and  climb  together — 

The  topmost  promise  scale. 
The  gentle  compassionate  Hand 

Lifting  your  darlings  up 
Leads  you  to  their  glorified  band, 

Look  up  sister,  look  up. 


•f-  — 

NATIVE   WOODS.  119 


TO    C- 


With  gift  from  two. 

Small  gift   but  joint,  which  means  that  we 

Unite  modest  ability 
With  that  delightful  quality 
Which  is  not  strained  tut  free; 
It  droppeth  in  the  dew, 
Itsparkleth  in  the  sheen 

Of  common  sunbeams, 
It  softly  toucheth  you 
While  secretly  you  lean 

Toward  ministries 
Which,  though  not  life  indeed, 
Hang  over  barren  need 
The  graceful  drapery 

Of  delicate  vine, 
Or  blossoming  rose, 
Or  cushioning  moss. 

Joint  gift  though  small,  its  double  guise 
Instinct  with  blessing,  blesseth  twice; 
Who  gives — who  takes,  must  surely  rise 
Above  the  sordid  eager  eyes 

Of  estimated  gain, 
No  mere  material  thing 

For  value  received, 

A  something  consecrate, 

A  souvenir,  a  ring — 

Find  if  you  can  its  end 

Or  its  beginning.    Well ! 

The  little  ripples  tell 
The  current  of  the  deep, 


120  LEAFLETS   FROM 


Though  it  be  fathomless ; 
You  hold  the  shining  key 
Of  our  small  mystery. 


AU  BEVOIB. 


Bidding  thee  God-speed  horn*.1 

We  will  stifle  regret, 
Giving  humanity  play 

Our  narrow  circle  forget ; 
Heeding  the  sweet  command  to  be 
Full  of  rejoicing  sympathy. 

Add  to  hearty  welcome 

A  zest  of  sudden  joy, 
Mingle  sweet  interchanges 

With  delightful  employ, 
Privilege,  rest  and  loving  cheer 
Home  vouchsafes  to  the  wanderer. 

Thus  as  we  journey  on, 

Never  the  way  so  drear, 
Little  oases  of  love, 

Wayside  bowers  appear, 
Glimpses,  earnests  of  what  shall  be 
In  our  Father's  mansion,  presently. 


LOUISA. 


Oh !  how  shall  we  bear  it, 
Or  what  shall  we  say 

When  our  household  idols 
Are  turning  to  clay? 


f-  - 

NATIVE    WOODS.  121 


When  the  sweet  human  blossoms 

We  fomlly  called  ours, 
From  our  sheltering  bosoms 

Droop,  frail  as  the  flowers. 

When  friends  who  would  comfort, 

But  mock  us  with  words 
Which  on  the  sore  spirit 

Fall  harsh  or  unheard, 
How  mute  and  how  helpless 

Our  love  or  our  woe, 
Beyond  this  dread  mystery 

Powerless  to  go. 

Oh!  soothing  and  tender, 

In  moments  of  gloom, 
The  story  of  Jesus 

Who  wept  at  the  tomb; 
With  sweet  condescension 

He  wins  you  to  rest 
Your  sorrowful  hearts 

On  His  pitying  breast. 

Your  darling  Louisa, 

So  shielded  by  love 
In  a  fair  home  belo.w 
.    Knows  a  fairer  above, 
Beyond  pain  and  sorrow, 

Beyond  sin  and  t6ars, 
With  the  glorified  children 

Her  innocence  wears. 

Oh  !  friends,  who  so  hitely, 
Felt  all  your  souls  moved 


-i- 


LEAFLETS   FROM 

With  a  warm  gnsh  of  pity 
For  her  whom  you  loved, 

So  our  heavenly  Father 
Yearns  to  bestow 

Sweet  comfort  and  healing 
Now  upon  you. 


"THE  MEMORY  OF  THE  JUST  IS  BIAS- 
SED." 


Now  sweetly  rising  through  the  mist  of  tears, 
Memory  lets  in  to  obscure  chambers 
Her  blessed  skylight,  and  shapes  her  fair 
And  vivid  picture.    Since  the  mild  dawning 
Of  November,  one  is  absent  from  us 
Whom  to  know  in  every  day 
Companionship  hath  been   a  joy.    Of  gentle 
Mien,  of  rare  and  equable  tempe -,  graces 
Of  mind  and  heart  blossomed  like  roses 
O'er  a  sterling  character,  whose  sunniest 
View  was  home. 

On  two  broad  principles, 
Supreme  love  to  God  and  equal  love 
To  man,  he  built  the  super-structure 
Of  a  blameless  life,  and  recognizing 
The  possibilities  of  evil, 
In  self-distrust,  by  simple  faith  allied 
Human  weakness  unto  strength  Divine.    SO 
Walking  'mid  his  fellows  upright,  albeit 
In  lowliness  and  meekness,  his  unconscious 
Influence!  circled  him  like  a  halo. 
In  the  full  prime  of  manhood  whose  generous 


f-  -4-. 

NATIVE   WOODS.  123 


Ann   invited  age  and  childhood  to  its  firm 
Support,  and  round  the  dear  domestic  group 
A  band  of  strength,  he  heard  a  higher 
Summons,  and  relaxing  his  tender  hold 
Of  earth,  took  hold  on  Heaven. 

Yet  not  alone ; 
When  flesh  and  heart  might  fail,  and  the  last 

scene 

Like  pictured  canvas  faded  out,  He, 
Who  said,  "Lo  I  am  \vith  you  alway," 
Revealed  His  shining  presence,  and  fixed 
His  joyful  recognition.     Who  shall  write 
The  epitaph  of  the  just!    Their  record 
Is  on  high,  but  fair  and  clear  loved 
Lineaments  appear,  while  sorrow  grows 
To  triumph  as  we  gaze, — "The  memory 
Of  the  just  is  blessed." 


SPIRIT-VIGOR, 


Well !  Uncle  George  is  growing  old, 

For  'tis  a  soljer  fact, 
I've  seen  a  few  stray,  silver  hairs 

Threading  the  shining  black. 
No  wrinkles  e'er  have  clouded  yet 

His  forehead,  smooth  and  high, 
The  fire  of  youth  burns  brightly  still 

Within  his  pleasant  eye. 

His  face  may  wear  a  shade  of  care, 
His  heart  is  warm  and  young, 


r—  T 

124  T.KAFLKTS    FROM 


He  carries  welcome  in  his  smile 

And  mirth  upon  his  tongue  ; 
His  form  is  yet  erect  and  tall, 

His  footstep  firm  and  light, 
If  Uncle  George  is  growing  old 

I  see  it  not  to-night. 

I  haste  me  back  to  olden  time, 

My  childhood  blithe  and  gay, 
Sweet  recollections  daisy-like 

Are  springing  all  the  way  ; 
Many  a  frolic  and  me.rry  romp 

The  farmhouse  walls  have  seen, 
Methinks  the  echoes  ringing  yet, 

So  wild  the  glee  hath  been. 

The  swift  and  viewless  wings  of  time 

On  silent  mission  sped, 
Those  careless  days  with  simple  joys 

As  morning  dew  have  fled, 
Wide  scattered  is  the  noisy  group 

So  oft  and  gaily  met— 
I  question  if  Life's  sober  shade 

Exceeds  the  sunshine  yet. 

Full  thick  and  fast  have  changes  come, 

Less  than  a  score  of  years 
Have  given  the  child  a  woman's  heart, 

A  mother's  joys  and  cares ; 
Lightly  they've  touched  one  active  form, 

Nor  left  an  impress  yet, 
Save  a  sprinkle  of  white  amid 

His  quondam  locks  of  jet. 


NATIVE    WOODS.  125 


No  change  our  friendship  ever  knows, 

It  bicloth  the  winter  snow, 
Uncle  George  of  my  childish  thought 

Is  dear  and  honored  now  ; 
That  his  heart  is  tender  and  true 

He  cannot  quite  conceal, 
Although  he  mingles  grave  converse 

With  a  spice  of  humor  still. 

Age  withers  not  the  loving  heart 

Nor  dims  the  spirit  eye, 
Wrinkles  and  frosts  cannot  impair 

Our  immortality  ; 
Secret  and  safe  abides  the  pearl 

Though  the  frail  casket  fall, 
The  royal  soul  inspired  by  lovo 

Is  conqueror  of  all. 


THE  UNEXPECTED  GUEST. 

Luke  1M,  1—7. 

He  entered  and  passed  through 
The  streets  of  Jericho,  while  on  His  steps 
The  expectant  multitude  pressed  closely. 
Zaccheus,  chief  of  the  publicans,  rich 
But  dispised,  of  stature  small,  desired 
To  see  Him.    Running  before,  he  climbed 
A  sycamore  tree  and  waited  by  the  way. 
Hither  they  pass  with  tramp  of  many  feet; 
His  eager  eyes  o'er  look  the  little  band 
Of  true  disciples,  the  fickle  throng,  subtile 
Questioners,  and  him  but  late  redeemed 


126  LEAFLETS   FROM 


From    blindness,    following.    One    Princely 

Form, 

Of  countenance  serene,  stern  to  command 
But  swifter  to  beseech,  fixes  His  gaze. 
Lo !  lie  looks-lip  and  saith,  "Zuccheus,  make 

haste, 

Come  down,  I  must  abide  with  thee  to-day." 
And  he  made  haste  and  joyfully  received 
Him.    A  murmur  rose,  contemptuous  spake 
The  haughty  Pharisee,  "Behold!  He  goes 
To  be  the  guest  of  him  who  is  a  sinner." 
Zaccheus  stood  humble  and  penitent 
Before  his  Lord  and  said,  "Half  of  my  goods 
I  offer  to  thf  poor  ;  where  I  have  taken 
Wrongfully  from  any  man  I  now  restore 
Fourfold."    Jesus  said,  "Salvation  cometh 
Unto  his  house  to-day  ;  he  is  a  son 
Of  Abraham." 

Still,  'mid  thronged  street-;  and  by-ways 
Lowly,  a  Royal  Stranger  entertainment 
Seeks,  and  passing  by  the  wise,  self-righteous, 
High,  to  humble  publicans  His  presence 
Breaks.     Oh  !  ye  who  fain  would  climb,  from 

self  's  low 
Stand-point,  some  sheltering  eminence,  while 

Jesus 

Passeth  by,  He  speaks  to  you,  "I  must  abide 
With  thee  to-day."    Oh;  sick  with  sin  and 

faint 

With  thirst  and  weary  of  taxation,  make 
Haste,  open  the  door.    Healing  balm,  living 
Water  and  liberty  enter  with  Him. 


NATIVE    WOODS.  127 


He  asks  not  "Have  ye  name  or  place  or  gift?" 
Only  joyful  reception.     The  room  was 
Low,  dark,  empty,  but  lo!  the  windows  are 
Illumined.     Hunger  and  poverty  sat 
Here.    Behold!  a  table  himself  hath  spread, 
Of  viands*  heaven-imported,  bread  of  life. 
But  how  shall  the  invisible  guest  be        • 
Recognized?    Many  knock  here  and 
Introduce  confusion.     He  coraeth  like 
A  Kin<;  to  take  possession,  not  this  day 
But  all  days.     Herein  we  know  if  He 
Abideth  in  us  by  the  spirit  He 
Hath  given. 


A  TOKEN. 


Sweet  woodland  blossoms!  fresh  from  loving 

hands. 

Your  dewy  touch  thrills  me  with  tender  joy. 
Types  are  ye,  exhaling  delicate 
Fragrance  of  two  young  lives,  whose   unas- 
suming 

Presence  sweetens  the  atmosphere  of  home. 
I  read  fair  prophecies  within  these 
Honey-cups.    Culled  from  the  shady  dell 
To  soothe  with  cool  refreshing  the  summer 
Wayside,  they  speak  to  me  of  the  dear 
Sheltered  nook,  whence  you  shall  go,  beloved, 
To  refresh  with  the'exquisite  fragrance 
Of  good  deeds  the  weary  paths  of  life. 
My  darling  ones,  your  thoughtful  grace  wins 
Tenderest  return.     Bloom  on  in  rich 


-i- 

128  LEAFLETS   FROM 


Perfection  your  appointed  season, 
Then  transplanted,  immortal  bloom 
In  Paradise. 


'HE    THAT    HATH     FRIENDS     M  t'ST 
'SHOW  HIMSELF  FRIENDLY." 


Did'st  thou  ever  woo  a  bird 

Prom  nest  upon  the  spray 
To  list  to  thy  friendly  voice 

And  follow  thee  away? 
Did'st  thou  mark  its  timid  look 

Seeing  thy  near  approach, 
Half  sportively,  half  fearfully, 

Evading  still  thy  touch? 
Did'st  thou  note  what  tenderness, 

What  caution  led  it  on, 
The  gentleness,  patient  care 

Ere  it  was  wholly  won  ? 

Would  it  leave  its  sunny  home, 

Its  nest  upon  the  spray, 
To  favor  thy  light  caprice 

Relinquish  liberty, 
If  thou  had'st  not  chained  its  powers 

By  a  deep  controlling  spell, 
And  taught  this  nature's  wilding 

To  love  thee  passing  well? 
If  perchance  thy  rude  address 

Should  once  repel  its  trust, 
Thou  would'st  find  the  free  spirit 

Could  ne'er  be  captured  thus. 


*>—  -4 

NATIVE    WOODS.  129 


Human  hearts  are  like  the  bird 

In  native  rights  secure, 
Wary  and  ready  of  flight 

At  mere  display  of  power, 
Only  by  delicate  ventures 

Charmers  may  hope  to  win, 
Affection  once  alarmed  . 

Distrustful  grows  again, 
If  it  cannot  make  escape 

Like  the  bird  wild  and  free 
It  will  droop  and  sadly  rue 

Enforced  captivity. 

The  bird  and  the  heart  were  made 

To  trill  a  happy  song, 
'Mid  glad  peaceful  conditions 

Which  full  sweet  notes  prolong, 
No  sorrowful  prisoners 

Silent  with  folded  wing, 
But  willing  hostages 

Ready  to  soar  as  sing ; 
Who  would  not  reciprocate 

This  joyous  confidence, 
Strive  to  be  wise  in  winning 

And  worthy  to  hold  from  hence. 


SUNSET,   AUGUST   22ND. 

Saw  you  that  sunset? 
'Twas  as  if  the  floor  of  the  blue  heaven 
Uplifted,  and  the  light  broke  through  with 
glory 


130  LEAFLETS  FROM 


Indescribable,  flooding  the  w^*"'''! 

Gate,  mellow  and  changeful  with  the  warmer 

Hues  or'  rainl>ow  coloring,  spreading 

Intangible,  till  half  the  sky  before 

You  rose  transfigured. 

Stay,  let  me  paint  it ! 

Nay,  *would'st  paint  the  lightning,  or  a  star, 
Or  skillfully  fashion  a  flower  to  bear 
Comparison  with  the  exquisite 
Shading,  or  delicate  pencilling 
Of  the  Almighty's  finger?    Would'st  bid 
The  slender  twig  in  fair  proportion  rise 
And  spread  itsarms  above  thee,  yielding  ripe 
Fruit  or  cooling  shade?     Would'st  carve,  out 

of  cold 

Marble,  thee  a  thing  of  life,  a  semblance 
Of  the  beautiful  soul-presence  of  a  child? 
Would'st  imitate  aught  of  thy  Maker's 
Handiwork,  and  in  the  pride  of  thy 
Creation  pronounce  it  good? 

Oh  !  let  me 

Not  profane  such  hallowed  scene  or  dabble 
It  with  gray  earth  tints.     Aye  rather  let  mine 
Eye  drink  as  the  heart  drinks  love,   or  bask 
In  it  as  doth  the  soul  in  the  ineffable 
Light  of  God. 

TO   F.   AND  M. 


Beloved!  the  stars  beam  down 
Tenderly  bright, 


NATIVE    WOODS.  131 


Full  from  her  radiant  throne 

The  queen  of  night 
Silently  smiles — 
Happy  omens!  Light  and  Hope 
Glisten  through  yon  horoscope. 

Over  this  path  as  you  go, 

The  solemn  trees 
Veined  fragments  of  shadow  throw 

Lighter  than  these 
Fall  coming  shades 
Duty's  sober  framework  graces 
And  connects  love's  shining  spaces. 

Pledged  in  beautiful  faith, 

Your  two  hearts  one, 
Undaunted,  walk  hand  in  hand 

Joyfully  on, 
One  for  the  right, 
One  in  holy  endeavor. 
Blessed  and  blessing  forever. 


TO  THE  FOUR  MOTHERLESS  ONES. 


Little  band  of  bereft  ones, 

Tenderly  go 
Out  from  my  aching  heart 

Yearnings  for  you  ;    .. 
Though  your  young  faces 
*  I  have  not  seen, 
God  makes  us  kindred  - 

In  suffering. 


132  LEAFLETS    FROM 


Little  band  of  bereft  ones, 

Tearful  and  sad, 
Pause  by  this  mystery, 

Checking  the  glad 
Mirth  of  your  voices, 

Holding  your  breath 
In  this  motionless 

Presence  of  death. 

Little  band  of  bereft  ones, 

Out  to  your  play 
You  go  on  the  morrow — 

Grief  cannot  stay 
The  course  of  a  child, 

But  at  night-fall 
Coming  home  weary, 

"Mother"  you  call. 

Little  band  of  bereft  ones, 

Many  a  time 
In  the  on-going  years, 

Our  hearts  will  chime 
In  pitiful  wailing, 

As  motherless 
We  traverse  this  valley 

Of  weariness. 

Little  band  of  bereft  ones, 

A  "grieved  child, 
I  kneel  weeping  beside  you  ; 

Knowing  what  wild 
Billows  of  sorrow 

Darkly  encompass, 


^ __  _„ 

NATIVE    WOODS.  1*3 


On  the  waves  walking, 
Jesus  speaks  "Peace." 

Little  band  of  bereft  ones, 

Comfort  take  here, 
Cling  fast  to  the  promise 

XiH-h  are  His  care, 
Nestle  close  to  Him, 

Savior  and   Friend, 
None  can  e'er  pluck  you 

Out  of  His  hand. 


WELCOME  TO  APRIL. 


Coquettish  month!   thon  herald  of  fair  fields 
And  blossoming  gardens,  thy  fitful  sunlight 
And  thy  clouded  skies,  thy  fleeting  showers, 
Thy  chilling   breezes,  and  thy  softer  breath, 
Wooing  the  sleeping  genii,  are  alike 
Of  promise  eloquent.     How  shall  we  welcome 
Thee?    May  bringeth  a  manifest  tribute 
Unto  Nature's  altar,  of  leaves  and  flowers, 
Hut  thou  preparest  the  brown  earth  to  bring 
Forth    and    bud.    Concealed    beneath    thy 

manrle 

Are  germs  of  life  which  nursed  by  the  sun- 
light 

And  the  early  dew  reproduce  Eden. 
With  thee  come  birds  and  manifold  sugges- 
tions. 

Hail  to  thee,  April !  this  moment  smiling, 
Anon  dissolved  in  tears,  like  one  of  Earth's 


* 

84.  LEAFLETS    I'KO.M 


Too  sensitive  children.     All   young    tilings 

stir  'neath 

Thy  fleeting  footsteps,  touched  by  sonic  tender 
Sympathy.    Thou  vvliisperest  to  the  fields 
And  lo!  they  don  green-tinted  velvet;  thou 
Pecpest  lovingly  into  the  dim  old 
Woods  and,  'mid  the  most  lufts,  rise  to  greet 

thee 

Delicate  shapes,  the  pale  disc  of  thy  few 
Favorites  like  white  stars  set  in  emerald. 
Fly  then  abroad  over  the  land,  a  glad 
Free  spirit ;  scatter  the  signals  of  life 
And- general  rejoicing.     Welcome,  thy 
Varying  moods,  thy  chary  gifts,  thyseif 
A  touching  emblem  of  our  mortal  race — 
Light  and  shadow,   mirth   and   tears    com- 
mingling. 


'SHE    GOETH    TO     THE    GRAVE    TO 
WEEP  THERE*" 


To-day  I  stood  by  the  little  mound 
Where  my  Mother's  precious  ashes  sleep, 

Softly  pressing  the  mellow  ground — 
What  could  I  do  but  wildly  weep? 

Slips  of  myrtle  in  glossy  leaf 
Tenderly  clinging  fibres  spread, 

A  bunch  of  violets  wild  and  sweet 
Unveil  blue  mysteries  at  her  head. 

From  the  dwelling  that  we  call  home 
Went  such  presence  of  light  and  love, 


NATIVE  WOODS.  135 


Out  of  our  dark  we  cannot  see 
Steadily  through  to  the  light  above. 

Then  I  think  of  the  weeping  ones 
At  the  sepulchre,  how  they  said, 

(Tho.--e  white-robed  angels)  "He  is  risen, 
Seek  not  the  living  among  the  dead." 

So  I  bend  to  my  heavy  cross; 

Fit  and  adjust  it,  blessed  Lord  ! 
Crowns  are  only  for  conquerors, 

Nothing  suffered — no  reward. 

.VI 1  His   beloved  wearing  now 
Earthy  image  shall  presently, 

Dropping  the  mortal,  be  clothed  anew 
After  Him,  in  the  heavenly. 


AN  EMBLEM. 


A  breath  of  exquisite  fragrance 
Floats  like  a  living  presence  on  the  air 
Subdued  by  April  sunshine.     Delicate 
And  subtle  its  fine  ministry  appeals 
Unto  my  sense,  as  some  refined  thought 
Unto  my  intellect.    Come,  let  us  seek 
Together  whence  it  wafts.    One  step  this  way 
Pause  here — I  trace  it  in  this  blossoming 
Heliotrope,  clad  in  the  royal  purple, 
Child  of  the  sun.     As  sunward  turns  its 
Radiant  disc,  so  follow  thee,  O  friend, 
All  gentle  graces.    My  little  emblem  ! 
Soothe  with  thy  cool  sweet  breath  the  sum- 
mer air; 


136  LEAFLETS    FROM 


Mention  in  spicy  odor  the  choice 
Embalmed.  Embody  invisible 
Blessings. 


IF  AND  IF. 


If  I  were  a  sunbeam,  that  fairy  thing, 
I  would  fly  to  earth  on  radiant  winy;; 
I  would  visit  sorrowing  hearts  below 
With  glimpses  of  comfort  and  gladness  too; 
The  spacious  heavens  I'd  help  to  light 
If  I  were  a  sunbeam  sparkling  and  bright. 

If  I  were  a  shadow,  I'd  softly  steal 
O'er  misery  beyond  my  power  to  heal ; 
I'd  hide  like  a  curtain  forever  true 
Pitiful  pictures  from  careless  view  ; 
I'd  soothe  the  wretched  to  merciful  sleep 
If  I  were  a  shadow  quiet  and  deep. 

If  I  were  a  smile,  a  genial  smile, 
Lowering  brows  I  would  surely  beguile; 
I  would  twinkle  in  faces  young  and  fair, 
Illumine  eyes  sadly  faded  by  care, 
No  welcome  ill-humor  should  tind  the  while 
If  I  were  a  smile,  a  genial  smile. 

It  I  were  a  tear,  a  hallowed  tear, 

The  burdened  heart  I  would  lift  and  cheer 

By  the  sure  relief  of  humanity, 

The  tender  commingling  sympathy, 

No  heart  should  grieve,  in  loneliness  drear 

If  I  were  a  tear,  a  hallowed  tear. 


NATIVE    WOODS.  137     ! 


If  I  were  :\  thought,  ;i  magnetic  thought, 
I'd  tin-ill  the  world  till  philanthropy  caught 
An  impulse  to  lift  the  weak  of  the  land, 
By  the  earnest  word  and  the  helping  hand, 
And  into  all  lives  a  grand  purpose  wrought 
Should  ari-cand  shine  from  magnetic  thought. 


"AM)  THEY  SHALL  BE  ONE  FLESH, 
ONE  HEART,  ONE  SOUL." 


The  deed    is  done -the    solemn   word  gone 

forth- 

The  marriage  vow  is  sealed— is  ratified 
In  I  leaven.    The  happy  bridegroom  now  lias 

led 

His  chosen  to  the  altar,  there  to  ask 
The  sanction  of  high  Heaven  to  make  his  own 
Her  most   his  heart  approves.    The  young 

bride  now 

Has  breathed  the  words  that  hind  her  destiny 
To  his.    The  golden  chain  encircles 
Two  hearts  henceforth  made  one. 

Think  you  who  made 

That  vow,  how  solemn,  aye,  how  deeply  sol- 
emn 

Are  the  words  just  spoken,  promises 
E'en   now  but  breathing  on  your  lips;  this 

then 
Your  charge. 

Love  her,  she  hath  left  all  for  you, 
Friends,   home,  the  sweet  endearments  she 
was  wont 


138  LEAFLETS   FROM 

To  know,  and  turns  with  firm,  unquestioning 
Faith  to  link  her  very  being  with  your  own. 
You  have  awaked  ti  chord  unceasingly 
To  vibrate  in  her  heart.     Her  h'r>t  spontane- 
ous 

Outpouring  of  womanly  affection 
Is  to  you;  a  living  spring,  whom  none 
Can  fathom,  in  her  mysterious  nature  wait;- 
Your  draught;  stint  not  the  cup,  lest  flowing 

all 

Too  swiftly  weareth  out  the  life,  and  late 
You  prove  its  depth,  its  power,  its  purity. 
Love  him,  vested  in  you  his  dearest  right.-. 
His  choicest  liberties.    If  you  should  fail, 
The  happiness  of  both  becomes  a  wreck. 
True  to  your  sacred  trust,  a  warm  attachment 
Will  grow  warmer,  deeper  as  time  speeding 
On  discloses  to  his  view  your  priceless 
Excellence.    A  happier  lot  is  not 
Ordained  for  woman.    Scorn  not  the  task  to 

smooth 

Man's  rugged  path  through  life's  bewildering 
Mazes,  nor  lightly  estimate  all  needful 
Sacrifice;  your  recompense,  full  trust 
And  warm  appreciation.    Match  every  proof 
Of  loving  deference  with  fine  response. 
Lean  on  his  stronger  arm,  but  be  not  helpless. 
Let  him  not  bear  alone  the  endless  ills 
E'er  on  life's  path  attendant,  else  perchance 
He'll  feel  the  burden — wish  to  be  released — 
For  there  are  none  among  Earth's  noblest 
sons 


NATIVE    WOODS. 


perfect.     Mother  and  sister  are  dear, 

lionored 

Names,  by  early  memories  hallowed, 
But  a  true  wife  enters  the  inner  court 
Of  man's  divided  heart,  sits  by  its  altar, 
Fans    its  incense    fire,    inspires    to    worthy 

thought, 

Noble  resolve,  invites  heroic  life 
For  home's  renown,  and  for  the  victor  shapes 
Love's  shining  crown ;  errors  she  may  lament, 
Her  aim  gently  to  lead  from  sin,  ambitious 
Not  to  rule,  her  glory  yet  to  win. 
Man  hath  more  strength,  more  power,  more 

influence 

In  the  assemblies  of  the  great,  but  in  one 
Fair  domain,  woman  may  bear  a  holy 
.Sovereignty  !  of  her  own   household,  queen, 
Beloved  and  blest.    Oh  !  if  you  rightly  value 
Happiness,  preserve  love's  chain  entire, 
Bright  this   new  added   link.    So  let  Time 

glide 
In    peaceful   measures    through   tumultuous 

sounds 
Into  Eternitv's  full  harmonies. 


CHALICE. 


Sipping  your  drink, 
Will  you  not  think 
Sometimes  and  gently  of  her, 
Who  would  g.adly  fill  up 


T 

1  lo  M:AFJ,KTS  FROM 


To  the  brim,  your  life-cup 
With  sweet  and  purest  Elixir? 

Draw  me  a  health 
Out  of  tho  wealt!-i 
<  >f  that  fine  sparkling  nectar, 
Which,  far  better  than  wine, 
Makes  the  countenance  shine, 
The  eye  a  radiant  reflector. 

Here's  to  supply 
Unfailipg— nigh, 

Ever  all  thirst  refreshing ! 
Springing  out  of  the  hills, 
Run  down  the  small  rills, 
And  widen  to  rivers  of 


"THE  SILVER  CORD  IS  LOOSED." 


Oh  !  to  see  the  light  fading 
I'nconsciously  from  eyes  so  dear,  to  know 
The  limit  to  the  sweet  companionship 
And  love  of  earth,  is  truly  terrible! 
\Vhile  the  paralysis  of  this  great  agony 
Is  on  thee,  we  softly  wait  in  the  dim 
Vestibule,  obedient  to  the  sweet 
Tenor  of  our  Lord's  command,  "Weep  ye 
With  those  who  weep/' 

We  bring  thee  blessed  balm,  whose 
Healing  drops   with    soft  anointing    soothe 

these 
Inward  wounds,  and  through   the  swollen 

veins 


XAT1VK    WOODS.  141 

Diffuse  a  healthy  rest.     We  bring  fresh  leaves 
From  the  immortal  life  tree.    Bj.nd  them  close 
O'er  the  torn  edges  of'thy  broken  hopes, 
Till  they  slip II  knit  with  new  vitality 
To  an  enduring  substance.    Welcome  we 
The  great  Physician,  whose  skillful  hand 
Abstracts   the  torturing  sting,  and  the  dull 

aching, 
From    these    human    hearts.    He    knoweth 

well  all 

The  soul's  vast  capacities,  prescribing 
Only  what  its  strength  can   bear;  what  our 

weak 

Hands  essay  in  vain,  His  matchless  touch 
Perfects;  what  narrow  sympathy  our  yearn- 
ing 

Hearts  bestow,  lost  in  the  measureless  ocean 
Of  His  love. 


OUR   BROTHER. 


The  sweet  May  mornings  come  and  go 

Xiike  former  years, 
The  days  o'er  run  with  mirth  and  song 

Too  glad  for  tears, 
Through  open  windows  floats  the  breath 

Of  orchard's  bloom, 
While  at  our  feet  the  velvet  turf 

Spreads  ample  room. 

But  there  is  shadow  in  our  home — 
Oh!   lovely  spring, 


+  4 

12  LEAFLETS   FROM 


Thy  gentle  airs,  thy  radiant  smiles 

Find  us  sorrowing; 
We  walk  familiar  pleasant  paths, 

And  softly  weep 
For  one  beloved  companion 

Early  fallen  asleep.  . 

So  recently  our  mutual  eyes, 

Looking  abroad, 
Beheld  the  same  earth,  the  same  blue  skies, 

But  now — O  God ! 
The  sunshine  of  Thy  presence  fills 

His  wondering  sight, 
And  Spring  perennial  blooms  for  him 

Day  without  night. 

Beautiful  dreams  of  time!  ye  lose 

Half  of  your  charm 
When,  the  gates  opening,  life  succumbs 

At  death's  alarm; 
Unto  thy  vanishing  delights 

We  are  not  left, 
Blessed  provision  Jesus  makes 

For  hearts  bereft. 

Oh!  happy  hope!  lift  up  our  souls 

And  clear  our  eyes, 
That  from  these  lowly  scenes  Faith  may 

Exulting  rise ; 
Suffering  is  o'er— sin  is  not— 

Death  is  o'ercome — 
We  go  to  him— triumphant  thought— 

To  Heaven,  our  home. 


NATIVE    WOODS.  14:} 


KATIK. 


1  stood  to-day  beside  the  little  couch 
Where  her  slight  form  lay  in  the  sleep  that 

.knows 

Xo  waking;  my  heart  questioned,  "Is  this 
Death,  so  beautiful,  so  lovely?"    The  brown 
Hair  floated  around  the  smooth  young  fore- 
head 

In  luxuriant  waves,  and  the  meek  hands 
Were  folded  on  her  bosom  ;  expression 
Sweet,  serene,  sat  like  a  living  presence 
In  the  fair  young  face;  some  kind  thought 

had  placed 

A  few  frail  blossoms  tenderly  above 
The  heart,  which  sent  so  lately  forth  through 

all 
This  wondrous  frame  the  springs  of  life. 

Come  ye, 
And  gaze,   who  fear  to  look  on  death.    Is 

aught 

Forbidding  in  this  gentle  sleep?    Aye,  press 
Your  lips  to  her's,  my  stricken  brother.    The 
Dear  clay  is  very  beautiful.    How  oft  this 
Fond  caress  knew  loving  answer,  but  she 
Is  not  here— this  but  the  little  house  her 
Spirit  tarried  in— the  veil  that  hid  her 
From  our  mortal  eyes.    She  hath  put  on 
The  robe  of  immortality— her  infant 
Lips  begun  that   new  and  wondrous   song, 
which 


~ 
r 

:   144  I.KAKI.KTS  KKOM 


.Makes  the  Heaven  of  Heavens  ring  till  the 

echoes 
Wake  faintly  below.     Four  summers,    brief 

and 
Bright,   she   flourished  like   the  flowers  she 

loved, 

But  in  that  upper  garden  is  no  blight, 
Xo  changing  skies,  no  rude  and  chilling  blast, 
Xo  shade,  no  tear.    Smooth  back  the  thick 

rich  locks; 

Look  long  and  tenderly  upon  the  little  form 
That  love  had  made  so  sacred  ;  take  the  glass 
( )f  faith,  "for  yonder  Heaven  where  angeU  si  •<  • 
(rod's  face  is  not  so  distant  as  wo  deem." 
Weep  if  you  must,  tears  are  no  sin;  Xature 
O'er  her  early  burial  weeps,  not  one 
Brief  fleeting  shower,  but  a  long  day  of  tears ; 
And  Jesus  wept,  lo !    He  can  comfort  too. 


GOLD-LINED. 


IiiscrilxMl    on  anniversary    of    Father1*  birthday,  with  tin-    ijolil 
pen,  his  gift  on  similar  occasion  of  my  own. 

Dear  Father  mine,  your  delicate  token 

Of  tender  thought, 

Though  grateful  thanks  remain  so  long  un- 
spoken, 

Is  not  forgot. 

This  its  first  labor,  may  no  line  unsightly 

Mar  the  fair  page 
From  its  nice  point,  but  beautious  characters 

The  eye  engage. 


_  » 

XATIVK    WOODS.  14") 


Tl ic swift  years  whirl  relentlessandreturnloss, 

Bringing  again 
<  >m-  birthdays,  Hecked  with  beams  of  gladness 

And  shades  of  pain. 

I  wander  back  through  memories  rosy, 

And  grateful  see 
Along  the  way,  in  manifold  traces, 

Love's  ministry. 

Our  humble  home  hoards  riches  of  affection, 

To  us  are  given 
The  brightest  links  of  tender  love  on  earth 

And  one  in  Heaven. 

\Ve  cling  together,  be  it  fair  or  stormy, 

With  reverent  eyes 

And    ready    hearts    to    grasp    life's   earnest 
meaning 

Before  it  flies. 

As  in  these  pleasant  places  now  we  gather 

One  family, 

May  we  walk  hand  in  hand  the  great  Here- 
after 

More  perfectly. 


CLOVE  APPLE. 


Odors  of  Araby  !  embalm  this  native 
Fruit  and  fix  in  its  minutest 
Pores  each  perfect  juice.     Blend  here  the  re- 
dolent 
Orient  with  the  orchard  bloom  and  fruitage. 


LEAFLKTS    FKOM 

Speak  for  me  the  subtle  mysteries 
Of  field  and  flower,  color  and  fragrance. 
Lead  this  friend  into  invisible  gardens 
Gardens  where  rare  exotics  ope  their 
.Delicate  leaflets,  and  lowlier  buds  shed 
Their  exquisite  breath,  and  the. sweet  sunshine 
Gilds  not  alone  our  chilly  northern  sky 
But  the  whole  world  of  human  blest  unfolding, 
And  light  is  but  the  synonym  of  health 
And  joy  and  life;  for  our  resplendent  sun 
Is  lit  at  the  great  Fountain  Head. 
And  light  is  life  and  life  is  love. 


MOSS  BY  THE  WAYSIDE 


Oh!  do  you  know, 

Under  the  snow 

Or  a  coverlet  of  leaves, 

Something  green, 

The  barren  scene 

Of  winter  dearth  relieves. 

Long  ere  the  first 

Grass-blade  hath  burst, 

Threading  the  black  mold 

Look  as  you  go 

Ever  so  low 

For  delicate  tufts  of  moss. 

E'en  *the  cold  stone, 
All  overgrown 
With  its  tiny  velvet  spray, 
Offers  me  rest, 


XATIVK    WOODS.  117 


Often   oppressed 

With  the  burden  of  to-day. 

Something  as  sweet, 

Daily  I  meet 

On  life's  rugged  wayside,  too — 

Mosses  that  grow 

I'nder  its  snow 

Kxquisiteiy  fresh  and  new. 

Words  of  cheer, 

Looks  that  endear, 

Delicate,  nameless  deeds, 

Growing  so  low. 

Scarcely  we  know 

Whence  the  conscious  c-harm  proceed? 

3 [any  a  stone 

Thus  overgrown, 

Lying  my  path  across, 

Proveth  a  sweet 

Wayside  retreat 

With  its  velvet  cushion  of  moss. 

••• 
MAY. 


A  long  absent  friend  of  sunny  climes 
And    radiant    skies    grows    eloquent.    Her 

warm  breath 

Fans  my  cheek,  while  in  my  ear  she  pours 
An  inspiration  which  I  cannot  speak. 
Fragrant  from  violet  beds,  where  her  light 
Footsteps  have  so  lately  fallen,  she  glides 
Among  the  trees  and  from  the  early  apple 


•!-  •  4 

1  IS  LEAFLETS    I-' ROM 


Blooms,  playfully  tosses  a  shower  of  white 
Leaves  in  my  way — a  lovely  challenge;  1 
Accept  it  and  salute  thee.     I  have  sought  thy 
Presence  in  the  dim  sequestered  nooks, 
And  caught  the  light  of  thy  fair  countenance 
From  many  a  hiding  place.     1  know  where 
Thy  tirst  flowers  appear,   which,   fairy-like, 

come 

"With  thy  coming  and  are  part  of  thee.     Aye, 
We  have  walked  together  hand  in  hand  be- 
neath 

Thy  ben iso n. What  happy  errand  thine! 

"WhatTmunifieont power  attends"  thy  'modest 

mein! 

What  delight  to  make  all  waysides  blossom  ! 
Who  would  not  be  a  messenger  Of  gladness? 
Children  go  Maying  and  dance  about  their 
Garlanded  emblem  with  innocent 
Rejoicing.    Sluggish  pulses  to  thy  sim'Ie 
"Respond  with   quickened    movement.     Dor- 
mant things 

Rouse  as  if  morning  beckoned  o'er  the  purple 
Hills.     What  grace,  what  tender  beauty  I 
Behold!     Would  it  wen;  always  May!     Vet 

should  we 

Tire  of  one  another,  gentle  friend  ?  ^Change — 
Change — the  seasons  ring  it.     Day  and  night 
Chase  one  another  in  perpetual  round.    Sleep 
Locks  us  up  in  separate  cells  like  capsules, 
So  rasping  care  excluded,  rest,  with  light 
Mesmeric  touch,  soothes  life's  uneasy  dialing 
And  brings  thy  dewy  freshness,  ()!  beloved 


NATIVE    WOODS.  149 

May.     New  particles  supply  those  worn 
And  waste,   the  same  yet  other,  all   things 

new— 

Wondrous  economy — creation's  plan- 
Individuality  clearly 

Preserved— a  perfect  whole  enclosing  myriad 
Parts  as  perfect  — no  single  atom  lost. 
What  revelations  of  all  precious  things 
Are  hidden  in  beautiful  simile! 


CROWNED. 


A  garland  of  fair  flowers  we  bring 
Spring's  earliest,  purest  offering, 
Whose  delicate  freshness  doth  beseem 
The  smooth  young  forehead  of  our  Queen  ; 
We  chose  the  buds  sparkling  with  dew, 
And  named  them  diamonds  for  you. 
We  wait  your  bidding  and  obey — 
Long  live  our  gracious  Queen  of  May  ! 

Elastic  form  and  lithesome  feet, 
Of  all  fair  maidens  meekly  meet 
To  wear  a  crown,  and  sit  a  queen 
Beneath  the  May-bower's  leafy  green, 
Reign  over  all  by  royal  right 
To  do  the  true,  and  live  the  light, 
Enlarge  your  realm,  extend  your  sway — 
Long  live  our  gracious  Queen  of  May ! 


4* 
~ 

MO  LEAFLETS   FROM 

CHRYSALIS. 


The  baby's  heart  has  ceased  its  faint  pulsation, 
The  still  hands  lie  above, 

Strange  calmness  settles  on  the  tiny  features 
So  sacred  unto  love. 

This  perfect  casket,  which  enshrined  a  jewel, 
We  lay  beneath  the  snow, 

These  untried  powers,   these  \\inning  infant 
graces, 

A  mystery  below. 

Are  they  all  vain,  O!  disappointed  parents, 

Weary  months,  agony ! 
Of  cherished  hope  and  fond  anticipation 

Is  this  the  end  to  be? 

No !  who  can  estimate  the  bliss  of  Being, 
The  priceless  germ  thus  given, 

'Mid  angel   teaching,  angel  ministry,   shall 
know 

Development  in  Heaven. 

There  its  first  conscious  light,  the  face  of  God, 
Its  first  sound,  melody; 

Surpassing  sweetness  wins  those  timid  lips 
The  unknown  song  to  try. 

You  may  not  watch  the  beautiful  unfolding, 

Its  bright  exotic  bloom 
Shall  never  feel  the  rugged  northern  blast 

That  sweeps  its  native  home. 

What  can  we  give  ?   the  sad  inheritance 
Of  sin  and  suffering. 


NATIVE    WOODS.  151 

This  cherub  flutters  through  mortality 
Unconscious  of  its  sting. 

OJi !    Mother's   love,   at   once  strongest  and 
tenderest 

In  Nature's  weakest  hour, 
To  shield  our  darlings,  thousand  shades  of  ill 

Defy  our  utmost  power. 

Lo  !  the  broad  bosom  of  a  loving  Saviour 

Invites  us  all  to  hide, 
Alike  a  refuge  for  our  babes  and  us 

Whatever  may  betide. 


"GO,    WORK   TO-DAY     IX    MY     VINE- 
YARD." 


"Youth  in  its  ardor,  manhood  in  glory, 
Infancy,  life's  path  all  yet  untrod, 
Childhood  with  dimples,  age  with  locks  hoary, 
All  have  a  work  in  the  vineyard  of  God." 

"And  now  abideth   Faith,  Hope,  Charity 
and  the  greatest  of  these  is  Charity." 

Dear  Brothers  and  Sisters, 
The  Master  walked  among  His  fields  to-dity, 
Through  mellow  furrows  where  the  seed 

awaits 

The  gentle  blessing  of  the  evening  dew, 
By  the  young  grain  whose  blade  rises  dis- 
tinctive 
From  surrounding  tares,  in  the  rose  gardens 

4-  -4- 


152  LEAFLETS   FROM 


Where  fair  colors  and  * \veet  breath  arc  all 
The  fruit  He  seeks,  'mid   boughs  of  orchard 

promise, 

Among  vines  climbing  by  rude  support 
To  hang  their  clusters  in  the  summer  sun  ; 
To  every  one  of  us  He  said,  "Follow 
Me ;  here  is  work.    You  strong,  put  in  the 

plow, 
lireak   up  the  fallow  ground,  sow  the   wide 

wastes 
From  out  my  liberal  storehouse,  make  the 

paths 
Straight.    Ye  whom  experience  hath  taught, 

bring 

All  your  skill  and  best  economy 
Of  labor.     Ye  young  and  vigorous, 
With  generous  zeal  reclaim  the  soil,  insure 
Your  title  by  actual  settlement, 
Turn  the  sod  and  hedge  about  it,  sow  all 
The  ground,  for  ye  know  not  whether  shall 

prosper 

This,  or  that,  or  both  alike  be  good. 
Be  diligent,  nor  faint  at  noonday  heat; 
With  rne  ye  are  co-laborers  ;  I  send 
The  early  and  the  latter  rain,  the  earnest 
OP  your  harvest.    Ye  patient  souls,  who  all 
Day  strew  the  stubborn  soil  yet  see  no  tender 
Upspringing,  blessed  are  they  who,  seeing 
Not,  believe  ;  I  will  send  you  the  Comforter, 
And  while  you  go  forth  weeping,  bearing 
Precious  seed,  my  dews  shall  fall,  my  sun- 
light 


f—  -4. 

NATIVE    WOODS.  153 


Ble.-.s.  and  you  shall  come  again  with  glad 
Rejoicing  bringing  in  your  sheaves.    Ye  weak 
And  cumbered   with    much   serving   whose 

little 

Fields  are  daily  trodden  o'er  and  o'er 
With  weary   feet,  and   heads  bowed  down, 

because 

Care  for  the  quality  and  quantity 
Of  bread  exhausts  the  vital  force,  faithful 
In  least,  faithful  in  much;  the  disciple 
.Is  not  above  his  Master,  nor  the  servant 
Above  his  Lord  ;  if  I  have  ministered 
Unto  you,  in  love  serve  one  another; 
Your  humble  tribute  I  will  receive, 
And  inasmuch  as  unto  least  of  these,  , 
Ye  minister  unto  me.     Where'er 
The  day's  end  finds  your  heads  pillowed 
Upon  a  stone,  I  will  raise  up  a  Bethel ; 
Up  the  bright  ladder  tender  prayers  shall 

climb, 
And  white-winged  answers  midway  meet 

them, 

And  treasures  come  and  go  with  glad  ex- 
change, 

Treasures  of  faith,  long  suffering,  patience, 
Sown   in  your  hearts    and  garnered    up  in 

Heaven. 
When  you  have  fallen  asleep,  "out  of  your 

homes 

The  living  answers  to  your  prayers  shall 
Scatter  broadcast  the  bread  of  life ;  your 
Memory  shall  be  blessed.    Ye  fearful 


* 


l-")4  LEAFLETS   FKOM 

And  faint  hearted,  who  see  the  enemy 
Entering  like  a  flood,  and  say,  'a  lion 
In  the  way,'  lift  up  your  eyes  !  behold 
The  mountain  full  of  chariots  !  fear  not, 
'They  that  be  with  you  are   more  than  they 

that 

Be   with   them.'    Ye   lowly,  bend  and  clear 
Obstructions,  that  those  who  follow  feebly 
Be  not  entangled.    Ye  little  ones,  haste 
To  the  garden,  remove  the  thorns  while  you 
Consider  the  lilies.     Are  any  joyful? 
Let  them  sing.     Any  afflicted?  let  them  pray. 
Are  any  turned  aside?  restore  ye 
Such  in  meekness.    Be  pitiful,  be 
Courteous,  watch  against  enemies,  guard 
Well  the  little  foxes  that  spoil  the  tender 
Vines."    The  days  demand  a  singleness 
Of  purpose,  and  earnestness  of  soul 
To  occupy  the  world.     The  kingdom 
Sufferelh  violence.     We  live  by  deeds, 
Not  years.     "That  life  is  long  which  answers 

*  life's 

Great  end."    Do  any  say,  "We  wait 
A  preparation?"    Behold,  abicleth 
Charity.    Our  sluggish  spiritual 
Pulses  have  felt  the  stir  of  love's  divinest 
Life,  herein  is  preparation.    Jesus 
Gives  us  new  vitality,  that  we  may 
Honor  Him  by  our  activity.    Let 
Lovfe  to  him  o'er-run  each  blest  full  cup, 
And  drop  with  heavenly  charity 
In  all  our  dailv  walks  and  labors — love 


NATIVE  WOODS. 

To  one  another,  be  like  tlie  precious 
Ointment  upon  Aaron's  head,  that  fell 
With  fragrant  largess  all  o'er  him — love 
To  the  tempted,  wayward,  erring,  lost,  like 
His,   who  sought  and  led  and  lifted,  lightly 
Esteeming  suffering  or  reproach,  who 
Said,  "I  came  not  to  call  the  righteous, 
But  sinners  to  repentance,"  who  says, ."work 
While  'tisday ;  work  all  the  day ;  work,  and  I 
Will  repay." 

••.  - 
EVENING. 


In  my  sylvan  retreat 
Light  and  shadow  meet, 

Lovely  autumn  eve: 
The  horizon  all  aglow, 
Softest  vespers  chiming  through 

Overhansring  leaves. 

October's  hazy  air 
Floating  everywhere, 

Sweetest  mystery 
The  gorgeous  scene  enfolds, 
Blended  crimson,  green  and  gold, 

Veiling  tenderly. 

Through  enchanted  bowers, 
The  delicious  hours 

Speed  with  noiseless  feet 
Touch  the  golden  thither  shore, 
Returning  nevermore 

Never  yet  so  fleet — 


156  L.EAFLKTS    FROM 

Like  murmurs  of  the  sea, 
Heard  vague  and  distantly, 

Din  of  busy  life; 
Nature's  treatise  I  pursue, 
Ever  Hiangeful — ever  new, 

With  instruction  rife. 

Fluttering  to  my  feet, 

Delicately  writ 
Each  exquisite  line — 

Spring's  unfolded  mysteries — 

Leafy  summer  histories- 
Tiny  volumes  shine. 

Yon  graceful  willow  tree 
Rehearses,  tenderly, 

Captive  Israel's  plaint; 
Ever  drooping — ever  weeping, 
Unseen  harps  sad  touch  o'ersweeping, 

Bitterest  lament. 

Cool  winds,  arising  now, 
Dewy  fingers  from  my  brow 

Dissipate  the  spell, 
While  the  apple  branches  sway 
To  a  charming  roundelay, 

Scarcely  audible. 

So  shadows  close  around— 

Darkness  on  the  ground- 
Dimness  o'er  my  sight; 

Heaven's  unclouded  blue  above — 

Earth  o'erwatched  by  boundless  love- 
Welcome,  starry  night. 


T 

NATIVE   WOODS.  Io7 


MORNING. 


See!     Aurora  comes  apace 
Up  the  blushing  eastern  sky, 

Radiant  with  loveliness, 
Riding  royally. 

From  their  various  repose — 
Rustic  couch  or  downy  bed— 

Glad  and  sad,  with  like  intent, 
Lift  the  drooping  head. 

Thoughts'  swift  arrows  cleave  the  air, 
In  their  wide  and  eager  quest 

Flitting  past  the  drowsy  eye, 
Viewless — numberless. 

Lo!  this  sweet  returning  light 
Reveals  many  an  anxious  brow  : 

Issues  vast,  a«d  mighty  throes 
Weigh  the  moments  now. 

Omens  of  the  coming  dawn 

The  aroused  nation  sees, 
Breaking  the  delusive  dream 

Of  ignoble  peace. 

Strong  in  Right,  her  loyal  braves 
'Neath  their  insulted  banner  flock 

With  united  front,  to  meet 
The  approaching  shock. 

From  their  laudable  pursuits— 
From  the  busy  ranks  of. toil, 

Called  to  settle  o'er  again, 
This  contested  soil. 


4 

LEAFLETS   FROM 


Justice's  giant  arm  u proa red 

Startles  with  terrific  awe ; 
Clashing1 — crashing  strokes  make  way 

For  majestic  law. 

'Tis:  the  gloom  preceding  morn  ; 

Oppression's  struggles— tyrant's  rage 
Hasten  on  the  glad  Aurora 

Of  the  golden  age. 

Blest  the  ready— armor-clad 
Sleeping  not  upon  their  post, 

Joining  the  triumphal  march 
Of  this  sacred  host. 

Blest  are  they  whose  joyful  eyes 
Welcome  morning  o'er  the  hill, 

As  a  revelation  new, 
Of  a  Father's  will. 

They  shall  see  a  fairer  dawn 

Flush  the  heavenly  orient; 
Clouds  and  shade  evanishing — 

Death's  night  quickly  spent. 


THE  GREAT  REBELLION. 

1860. 
The  night  gathers— darkness  that  may  be 

felt 

Obscures  America — the  storm  lowers — 
Its  heavy  thunder-bursts  reverberate 
Around  the  globe,  stirring  the  sluggish  pulse 
Of  nations.    Its  lightnings  flame  to  farthest 
Boundary  of  our  native  land — sublime 


NATIVE    WOODS.  159 

Yet  awful  spectacle. — We  shrink  aghast 
From  the  black  precipice  upon  whose 
Outmost  verge  we  stood  unconscious.     "Wo 

spring 

I'p  from  the  sleep  which  was  almost  our  death. 
Through  dim  eyes  see   thousands  of  braves 

marshalled 

Beneath  our  glorious  banner,  firm 
And   undaunted,  sweeping  with  one  broad 

glance 

Its  sacred  folds  and  heaven  ;  I  see  the  foe 
Advance  with  shouts  of  exultation, 
Bearing  aloft  their  hateful  symbol,  I  see 
The  nations  world-wide,  view  with  intensest 
Interest,  America's  great  experiment: 
I  feel  the  loyal  hearts  in  this  free  North 
Throb  with  a  mighty  energy  ;  behold 
Through  their  clay-trappings,  heroes  noble 
In  doing — nobler  in  suffering.    Lo!       * 
The  lines  of  partisan  strife  annulled — 
All  creeds  forgotten — all  forms  abolished— 
Brothers  stand  shoulder  to  shoulder  for  our 
Liberties,  our  own  dear  Magna  Charta. 
Terribly  earnest  the  coming  drama. 
Cowards  may  flinch,  and  traitors  fear  to  die, 
But  the  true  sons  will  guard  to  their  last  breath 
Their  father's  legacy. 

The  morn  shall  rise, 

And  its  delightful  air  from  the  night's  storm 
Swept  of  miasma,  come  purified  and  clear; 
Again  from  hill  to  hill  resound  the  busy 
Notes  of  industry,  dear  ones  returning, 


** 


A. 

T^ 


LEAFLETS   FKOM 

Thrice  dear  by  peril,  with  songs  of  victory 
And  glad  hosannas— infamous  oppression 
Hydra-headed,   vanquished  and  slain.     Man 
Shall  sit  beneath  his  own  vine  and  fi^-tree 
Unmolested — body  and  soul  enfranchised  ; 
Unity  and  liberty  proclaimed 
To  the  great  family  made  Of  one  blood. 

- .  ••• 
FIRST  PURITY— THEN    PEACE. 


Dedicated  to  our  brave  volunteer*. 

Go,  brothers,  go ; 

Add  your  bright  tapers  to  the  beacon  light; 
Pile  high  the  friendly  watch-fires  — 
Our  good  ship  ploughs  a    rough  sea  through 

storm  and  night. 
The  wild  war-fiends 
Leashed  to  the  Almighty  Hand, 

A  season,  hold  posession 
Of  our  distracted  land. 

Hark!  in  the  lull, 
The  wail  of  sorrow,  and  the  moan  of  pain — 

The  suppressed  agony 
Of  great  hearts  bleeding,  Justice  to  maintain, — 

Heroic  words 
Rung  out  like  clarion  peal, — 

Voices  of  mighty  prayer 
On  clash  of  ready  steel. 

Ignoble  souls 

Who  falter  now,  and  false  to  Freedom  prove, 
With  white  lips  crying  "Peace," 


NATIVE    WOODS.  161 

Let  hot  rebuke  administered  in  love 

Sting  to  action. 
There  is  no  neutral  spot — 

We  love  our  peerless  country, 
<  )r  el»e  we  love  her  not. 

Shall  free  sons  bow 

To  the  base  thralldom  their   brave  sires  dis- 
dained ? 

Unprecedented  power 
Stoop  to  the  yoke's  unprecedented  shame? 

All  noble  blood 
Wasted — the  glorious  past 

Annulled — Tyranny  crush 
Humanity  at  last? 

No,  brothers  no! 
Your  stalwart  forms,  a  living  breast-work, 

shield 

Our  blood-bought  liberties; 
The  struggling  world  awaits  this  crisis-field 

With  trembling  hope. 
On  to  the  rescue !  fly  ! 

Esteem  no  sacrifice 
Too  dear  for  Liberty. 

Go,  brothers,  go 
From  the  free  homes  of  our  beloved  West, 

Of  her  broad  interests  mindful ; 
For  freedom  and  for  God  each  inch  contest — 

Bone  of  one  bone, 
A  consecrated  band, 

Suffering  through  every  nerve, 
With  one  loved  Father-land. 


T* 

162  LEAFLETS   FKOM 


Go,  brothers,  go ! 
Though  strife  be  deadly  and  the  battle  hot — 

By  pureness  and  by  knowledge 
Exalt  our  cause — we  charge  you,  fail  us  not ; 

The  brave  at  home 
Will  put  a  cheerful  courage  on— 
Stand  by  you  undismayed, 
Till  victory  be  won. 


COL.     ELLSWORTH. 


A  gallant  champion  of  a  noble 
Cause  has  fallen  !    The  clarion  peal 
Of  our  advance  guard  rings  back  prefaced 
By  a  knell.    Before  the  battle  smoke 
Darkens  Virginian  skies,  or  the  foe 
Knows  one  fair  encounter,  the  sacrifice 
Begins.    Are  our  hearts  brave  to  suffer? 
The  young,  intrepid  commander,  the  martial 
Hero,  the  citizen-brother,  the  son, 
The  affianced  is  the  first  offering 
Upon  our  country's  altar.    One  blinding 
Lightning  flash  electrifying  all 
The  land— the  fatal  type  mingle  and  blur- 
Fro  m  lip  to  lip  the  sympathetic  word 
Buns  tremulous.    How  the  indignant 
Blood  mounts  up  to  fever- heat  and  hurries 
Impetuous  along  the  vital 
Avenues.    A  murmur  loud  and  deep  swells 
On  the  troubled  air;  full  many  a  comrade's 
Arm  is  nerved  to  smite  the  accursed 
Treason,  whose  acknowledged  aim  is  at 

4-  4- 


NATIVE    WOODS.  163 

The  nation's  life,  through  her  heroic  sons, 
Whose  tactics  train  licensed  assassins, 
Whose  dastard  blows  covet  no  open  field. 
Down  with  the  hateful  symbol  of  rebellion  ! 
Float  the  old  colors  proudly  at  half  mast! 
America's  sons  can  die,  but  brook  not 
Insult  to  her  sacred  flag.    With  measured 
Tread  follow  the  muftied  beat  of  the  slow 
Dirge — one  vast  procession  mourning  one 
Common  loss.    An  honored  grave  on  his  free 
Mother  soil,   'neath  the  dear  banner  which 

knew 

Xo  rival  allegiance  ;  foremost 
In  action,  first  to  fall.    A  name  embalmed 
With  tender  memories  in  patriot 
Hearts  forever,  his  fair  inheritance. 
Brief,  bright  career!  nor  taunt  nor  cruel 
Violence  can  dim  his  immortality. 
Rest,  representative  of  a  royal 
Race  ;  the  flaunting,  scorned  usurper  stained 
With  thy  martyrblood,adear  bought  trophy — 
That  blood  transfused  swells  the  great  veins 

instinct 
With  life  and  healing. 

Who  shall  be  next  bereaved? 
Through  what  exquisite  nerve  cuts  the  next 

blow  ? 

America's  challenged  freemen  rise 
In  their  strength,  a  great  avenging  power. 
Behold  their  majestic  bearing,  their 
Streaming  banners,  their  unsheathed  swords  ! 

Hark! 


164  L,KAFJ,KTS    FROM 


The  swift  tramp,  the  stern  command. 

Gird  ye 
True  braves!  Not   conquest,   not   base  gain 

impel 

This  strife — Jehovah's  holy  war!    at  peace 
With  Him,  resist  embattled  legions. 
Sweet  laud  of  liberty — our  Country. 
.Liberty's  mighty  patron— God. 

1861. 

"To  everything  thorn  is  a  neasun  ami  a  time  to  every  ]>iir|>i>«- 
under  Heaven." 

Herein  is  manifest  fitness — the  world 
Casts  in  her  crucible  all  shining  things 
And  puts  them  to  the  test — exacts  from  would 

be 

Orators  a  maiden  speech — bids  scholars 
Prove  their  research— preachers  win  by  rarest 
Practice,   smallest    meed  of   praise — doctors 
Discourse  skill  deeper  than  "Miiteria 
Medica"  of  words— philosophers 
Experiment  a  life-time—honesty 
Run  in  one's  character  like  vein  of  ore- 
No  donor  this  matter-of-fact  world.     Who 
Wears  them,  earns  her  laurels. 

What  sort  of  metal 

Do  ye  put  in  blades?    The  truest  steel, 
Pine  tempered,  fire  tried,  keen  edged, 
Adroitly  polished.    Swords  are  no  idle 
Toys— they  flash  on  heroes  with  significance. 
Do  we  beguile  these  moments,  heavy 
With  portent,  in  playful  passes,  or  ask 


*  . 

T 

NATIVE    WOODS.  165 


Less  of  the  soldier  than  this  plain  age 
Demands  to  prove  his  mettle,  and  base 
Approval  on  the  future  fact? 


PIC-NIC,  JULY  4TH,  1861. 


Hie  away  to  the  woods 

This  anniversary; 
Nature  holds  a  carnival, 
And  decks  in  smiling  mood 
The  grand  ancestral  hall ; 
Awyay — away — away ! 

Out  of  the  dusty  town — 

Out  of  the  din  of  trade — 
Gladness  and  joy  resound 
Through  arches  broad  and  free 
Far  in  the  grateful  shade; 
Away — away — away ! 

Here  is  room  for  the  swell 

Of  Freedom's  mighty  wave; 
Trustfully  still  we  hail 
Our  independence  day. 
Huzza !  the  true  and  brave ! 
Away — away — away ! 

Cheerful  in  camp  and  field 

Learning  the  art  of  war, 
Forward  with  orders  sealed 
Stern  work  our  brethren  do 
On  simple  soldiers  fare — 
We'll  take  our  rations  too. 


166  LEAFLETS   FROM 


Here's  to  our  dear  birthright— 

When  enemies  assail 
We  pledge  the  sword  of  right, 
The  strength  of  stalwart  hands, 
They  never  shall  prevail, 
Or  clench  on  us  their  bands. 

Here's  to  the  banner  we  love, 

Mighty  on  land  and  sea, 
Proudly  it  floats  above 
America's  sure  strongholds, 
Trained  armies  of  liberty 
In  schools  and  Sabbath  schools. 

Glory  to  God  on  high! 

Our  cause  doubly  His  own, 
He  will  give  victory  ; 
Reigning  supreme  o'er  all, 
At  His  behest  alone 
Nations  arise  or  fall. 


WATCHMAN!  WHAT  OF  THE  NIGHT? 


Christ's  bold  Embassador 
Unto  a  world  in  arms— Patriot — Brother — 
What  signs?    The  troublous  latter  days  of 

the  old 

Prophecy,  hasten  apace.    I  see  thee 
Standing,    bearing    thy    great    commission 

bravely, 

Expounding  the  hidden  life  which  no  device 
Of  war — no  swift  and  deadly  weapon 
Can  assail,  before  which  fourscore  years 


NATIVE    WOODS.  167 


Of  earthly  habitation  dwindle 
To  nought.    To-day's  occasion  proveth 
Christ's  freemen,  or  willing  slaves  of  Sin. 
To-day  America's  heart  throbs  mighty 
Pulsations  through  her  countless  veins.    To- 
day 
Her  sons  are  summoned  from  their  peaceful 

fields, 

The  avenues  of  trade,  the  halJs  of  learning, 
The  sanctuary,  to  gird  on  the  sword 
And  learn  the  art  of  battle;  her  granite 
Hills  rock  to  their  base  and  issue  volcanic 
Lava — her  broad  prairie  expanse  trembles 
And  surges  with  a  great  upheaving— 
Her  free  homes  feel  the  shock  of  her  contend- 
ing 

Armies — her  virgin  soil,  as  yet  unpressed 
By  traitor  foot,  rears  quietly  its 
Green  sward  to  the  sun,  unconscious  of  events 
Shaping  its  destiny.    The  Father  of  Waters 
Flows  its  wonted  length,  albeit  it  hath 
Shadowed  the  badge  of  rank  rebellion. 
The  sounds  of  martial  music  trespass 
On  the  night.    Husbands  and  sons  and  broth- 
ers 

Meet  the  imperative  call  of  duty. 
Fearful  the  pause,  as  in  mid-ocean 
A  calm  heralds  terrific  tempest ; 
Fearful  the  clash  of  hostile  brethren  ; 
Fearful  the  stain  that  must  wash  out  in  blood; 
More  fearful  still  the  onward  march 
Of  despotism— this  Lucifer  who  would 
Be  king  in  Heaven. 


168  LEAFLETS    FROM 


This  Gordian  knot 
Must  know  the  thrust  of  a  keen  blade. 
Who  with  oppression  yoke  must  feel 
The  avenger's  red  right  arm,  for  "Right  is 
Right  since  God  is  God." 

Who  will  to  do  His  will —    . 
'Tis  they  whose  pilgrim   feet  lead  'mong 
The  heather-hills,  whose  skies   by  day  glow 
Vivid  hues  or  glisten  promise-bows, 
Whose  tent  by  night  is  the  Most  High's  pa- 
vilion, 

Whose  daily  food  is  manna,  whose  raiment 
Is  Christ's  righteousness,    whose  dialect  is 

love. 

Fold  us,  great  Will,  in  Thee,  to  do  or  suffer, 
America's  loyal  braves,  the  world 
Our  kindred,  and  Heaven  our  better  country. 


TO  ONE  IN  CAMP. 


From  under  your  canvas  roof, 

Leagues  and  leagues  away, 
Homeward  swift  winged  thoughts 

Flutter  at  close  of  day. 
Stretching  before  your  vision 

A  stranger  landscape  lies, 
But  your  eyes  and  hearts  are  busy 

With  distant  memories. 

No  tender  and  beaming  glance- 
No  sweet  familiar  tone 

Of  the  loved  and  loving  ones 
This  moment,   meets  your  own; 


NATIVE    WOODS.  169 


But  the  flash  of  gleaming  sabre, 

The  crack   of  rifles  near, 
The  roar  of  deafening  cannon 

Forever  in  your  ear. 

The  hum  of  many  voices, 

The  tramp  of  many  feet, 
The  daily  march  and  drill, 

The  fearful  risks  you  meet 
Develop  the  sturdy  sinew, 

Are  stirring  the  hero-blood, 
And  teaching  you  what  a  power 

Is  in  you,  for  ill  or  good. 

Oh !  great  our  load  of  sorrow,     • 

Heavy  and  dim  our  eyes 
With  constant  heavy  pressure 

Of  sore  anxieties; 
Hoping  and  waiting  and 'praying 

That  our  brave  and  gallant  boys 
As  valiantly  enroll — 

Good  soldiers  of  the  Cross. 

Then  when  this  war  is  over, 

If  never  again  you  come 
With  your  cheerful  manly  presence 

To  gladden  an  earthly  home, 
We  shall  know  you  have  gone  to  receive 

Enduring  laurels  above, 
Where  time  may  complete  our  circle 

In  that  beautiful  home  of  love. 


-r- 


170  LE AFLETS   FROM 


A  SOLDIER'S  PORTRAIT. 


Wistful,  earnest,  gravely  tender, 

Humid,   lustrous  eyes. 
Eloquent  thy  voiceless  language 

Of  rare  memories. 
Oh !  so  lately  flashed  upon  us, 

Like  a  bright  autumnal  day, 
Thy  strong  spirit  up  and  girded, 

Many,  many  leagues  a  way. 

What  intense  and  deep  emotion 

Through  that  slight  frime  thrills — 
Faithful  transcript,  I  can  read  thee 

Though  thy  calm  is  terrible; 
Gazing  till  the  thought  embodied 

Peoples  all  the  horizon, 
That  resounds  with  ringing  armor 

And  thy  bold  words,  "Courage,  on  !" 

Oh,  for  wonderful  achievement, 

Triple  coat  of  mail ! 
Oh,  for  talismanic  weapons. 

When  enemies  assail ! 
Oh  !  for  glad  and  sure  returning 

When  the  raging  conflict  cease, 
Victor  for  Humanity, 

Thy  kingdom— perfect  peace. 


NATIVE    WOODS.  171 

I    WISH   THEE   JOY!     ' 


I  wish  theejoy!  yet  not  as  they  whose  lips 
Sparkle  the  effervescense  of  a  sudden 
Thought,  forgot  as  soon   as  spoken ;  not  joy, 
A  sluggish  stream,  slow  flowing  'mid 
Monotonous  banks  low  stretched  aside, 
But  something  with   a  current,  swift    per- 
chance, 

And  strong  and  high,  bearing  like  the  ma- 
jestic 
River  life  upon  its  bosom. 

The  bubbling 

Rivulets  down  from  the  mountain  spring, 
Through   childhood's  hanging  gardens  and 

youth's 

Uneven  terraces,  seek  this  new 
Confluence  and  harmonious  glide 
On  to  the  limitless  ocean.     Harmonious? 
Aye,  if  you  will  it  so,  and  each 
May  bear  the  other's  surface  ripples, 
With  the  great  deep  below  all  undisturbed 
And  calm.     Mysterious  beings,  we  ! 
Transformed  by  circumstance  to  gayest 
Birds  floating  air-poised,  or  warbling  mellow 
Note;  anon,  silent  with  folded  wing, 
Our  nature  baffling  keenest  scrutiny, 
We  set  a  watch— we  say,  "Soul !  I  must  know 
Thee,"  but  the  various  rnoods  distract  our 
Sentinel,    with    rapid    march    and    counter- 
march 

Dealing  confusion  ;  what  we  are, 
Forever  learning  ;  what  is  our  bosom 

,*( ,»t 


172  LEAFLETS   FROM 


Friend,  failing  to  fatliom,  wrapped  u{> 
In  this  similitude  of  flesh. 

Enough! 

These  lower  grounds  of  our  acquaintance 
Teem  with  sweet  delightsome  Edens. 
I  wish  thee  joy. 


LIFT   UP  YOUR   EYES. 


I  had  bent  wearily 

Over  my  six  days'  labor.     With  hand 
And  eye  attent  while  the  swift  hours  chased 
One  another,  and  their  stroke  fell  stinging 
On  my  ear,  like  lash  or  spur  to  hurry 
My  o'er-wrought  powers  unto  the  evening's 
Goal.     For  me  the  morning  shone  but  to  give 
Light  to  guide  my  toil.     Whether   the  night 

had 
Stars  or  moon  I  knew  not. 

The  birds  chattering 
About  my  window  of  summer  plans, 
With  the  hum  of  the  small  trio  reaching 
On  tiptoe  to  spy  out  their  nestlings 
In  the  apple-tree,  smote  on   my  nerves   and 

sent 

My  needle's  point  into  my  quivering 
Fingers.    No  peaceful  thoughts  run   gentle 

rhythm 

These  distracted  days;  now  loud,  now  faint, 
The  ceaseless  recapitulation  went  on. 
At  length  this   week  like  other  weeks  grew 

old, 
My  self  appointed  task  completed,  I 


NATIVE    WOODS.  173 


Rose  up  and  wandered  dreamily 
Outside  the  door.    I  lifted  up  my  eyes ; 
Was  this  the  same  world  I  had  inhabited 
These  tiresome  days?     This  firmament,  how 

wide, 

How  lovely!    This  universal  green,  how 
Soothing  to  eyes  dazzled  with  following 
Shining  steel !    The  air  dewy  and  cool, 
All  full  of  mellow  sounds  like  restful  music 
Charming  every  sense. 

Laborers  weary 

In  all  departments  of  this  busy  life, 
Lift  up  your  eyes.    These  narrow    bounds 

limit 

Machinery,  but  not  results  of  toil. 
Lo !  the  blue  vault  retreats  before  your  vision, 
And  lesser  things  grow  less.    No  haste  at- 
tends 

The  grand  majestic  movement  of  the  spheres  ; 
The  seasons  march  in  stately  silence ; 
Lovely  creations  meet  us  each  morn, 
Counselling  diligence  and  patience. 
This  perfect  rose  is  product  of  a  plan 
Outlined  in  Eden.    Six  wonder-working 
Periods  date  a  beginning  beyond 
Our  finite  thought.    He  who  sits  upon 
The  circle  of  the  earth  is  over  all. 
Keep  the  upward  outlook  clear,  so  skylight 
Shall  illume  the  difficult  pathway,  and 
The  unquiet  spirit  abide  in  peace. 
Lift  up  your  eyes. 


174  LEAFLETS   FROM 

SUMMER. 


The  skies  are  smiling  in  the  glad  June  light, 
That  yearly  comes  to  woo  the  changeful  earth 
Unto  a  miracle  of  loveliness  ; 
The  trees  have  shaken  off  their  wealth   of 
blossom 

To  put  on  their  rich  abundant  fruit. 
Amid  clustering  leaves  I  hear  low, 
Rustling  music;  not  the  saddened  air 
Of  the  old  dying  year,  but  a  fresh,  new 
Tune  of  Summer's  childhood. 

There  have  come  swift 

Heralds  to  the  woodland  and  the  sheltered 
Nooks  and  sunny  glades  have  each  prepared 
A  fitting  garland  for  young  Summer's  brow. 
Other  fleet  messengers  paused  by  each 
Door,  and  bade  the  roses  lend  their  blushes 
To  her  cheek.    I  saw  them   peeping  out  this 
Morn  to  see  if  she  indeed  were  here,  and 
Ere  the  noon  they  clasped  her  to  their  hearts. 
She  cometh  with  the  joyous  step  of  a  king's 
Daughter;  no  glittering  pageantry,  no 
Pompous  retinue  forbid  the  humblest 
Page,  but  her  attendants  spring  from  many 
A  wayside,  and  the  ministers  of  her 
Sweet  will  in  all  her  Father's  wide  domains. 
She  hath  no  favorites;  all  may  alike 
Dwell  in  her  smile  through  her  long  days, 

and  at 

Her  evening  banquets  sit  as  honored 
Guests.    Her  courts— the  spacious  fields,  the 

palace — 


NATIVE   WOODS.  175 


The  broad  earth,  sky-roofed  ;  there  is  not  one 
Of  all  her  many  subjects  who  doth  not 
Play  the  lover ;  world-wide  they  sing   her 

charms. 
We  welcome  her  to-day  with  glad  acclaim. 


RAILLERY. 


There's  a  mischievous  twinkle  in  thine  eyes' 
deep  shade, 

With  frolic  and  fun  they  o'er-flow, 
I've  smiled  as  I  gazed  and  have  musingly  said, 

"He's  devising  some  witchery  now." 

How  strangly,  yet  plainly,  we  fancy  oft  times 
The  thoughts  on  the  features  we  trace, 

While  the  soul  flasheth  out  through  its  cur- 
taining blinds 
Its  visible  form  in  the  face. 

Oh !  think  not  thy  heart  like  a  tablet  unseen, 

'Tis  no  difficult  task  to  define 
What  sort  of  exchange  passes  current  within, 

Thou  canst  not  deceive  me  in  thine. 


'MEMENTO  MORI." 


They  told  me  it  was  but  a  child, 

They  laid  in  silence  down 
Beneath  the  bright  and  pleasant  earth, 

In  her  bosom  dark  and  brown ; 
They  tolled  the  bell  less  mournfully, 

And  methought  their  tears  restrained, 


176  LEAFLETS    FROM 


Saying,  "only  a  little  child," 
And  went  their  ways  again. 

But  my  heart  wandered  drearily 

To  the  home  late  so  bright, 
Where  gladness  drowned  in  sadness 

Morning  gave  place  to  night ; 
Though  rosy  faces  gathered 

About  the  cheerful  room, 
A  shadow  over  the  cradle 

Enveloped  all  in  gloom. 

There  were  fresh  and  breezy  voices, 

Lips  of  roseate  hue, 
And  eyes  whose  very  brilliance 

'Twas  blessedness  to  view, 
But  the  baby  of  the  household— 

The  lambkin  of  the  fold, 
The  new-born  hope,  the  latest  joy, 

Was  motionless  and  cold. 

And  the  mother's  eyes  with  weeping 

Had  suddenly  grown  dim, 
The  father's  trembling  lip  betrayed 

'Twas  agony  to  him, 
The  group  of  sorrowful  faces 

So  innocent,  so  young-, 
Proclaimed  surpassing  strength  of  love 

Whose  tendrils  closely  clung. 

The  world  speeds  on  with  busy  care 
Or  vain  and  thoughtless  mirth, 

While  daily  little  coffins  go 
Out  from  the  homes  of  earth  ; 


NATIVE    WOODS.  177 


Silence  is  for  the  lisping  voice, 

Tears  for  the  merry  glee, 
Where  naught  remains  to  the  eager  clasp 

But  a  tender  memory. 

Pitiful  end  if  this  were  all, 

And  winsome  shapes  which  cast 
So  slight  a  shadow  on  the  wall 

Hold  so  much  of  love;  at  the  last 
\Ve  shall  find  there  is  nothing  lost 

Of  the  darlings  or  the  love, 
Hopes  that  happily  outlive  earth 

Are  translated  above. 


K  INSURRECTION. 


'•As  \ve  have  borne  the  image  of  the  earthy,  we  shall  also  bear 
the  image  of  the  heavenly." 

"Oh!  Death  where  is  thy  sting?     Oh!  Grave  where  is  thy  victory  ?" 

Our  little  Flora,  living  with  us  daily 

In  our  home, 
Full  of  mirth  and  music,  flitting  gaily 

Through  each   room 
Like  a  beam  of  sunlight,  or  a  breath  of  bloom. 

Ours,  yet  unknown,  wrapped  in  childhood's 
mystery, 

Day  by  day 

We  conned  with  eager  eyes  the  growing  his- 
tory, 

Hid  away 
Choice  little  passages  for  a  future  day. 


4-  ~~ 

178  LEAFLETS  FROM 


So  nine  rapid  summers  touched  and  bright- 
ened 

Flora's  brow, 
While  the  covenant  angel  gently  troubled 

Depths  below, 
And  the  radiant  spirit  meek  and  tender  grew. 

A  new  trophy  of  the  immortal  story 

Of  the  cross, 
Her  young  life  hath  gathered  wondrous  glory 

In  its  loss, 
Child-conqueror  through  her  Redeemer's  cross 

Angel  of  your  household  !  anguished  human 
parents, 

Life  is  long 
Which  life's  great  end  so  beautifully  answers; 

Oh!  be  strong, 

Flora  lives  and  sings  among  the  white-robed 
throng. 


IMPROMPTU. 


My  friend,  these  sweet-breathed 
Flowers  are  faithful  messengers.    How  well 
Their  lovely  faces  mirror  loving  thoughts. 
I  look  and  lo !  each  subtle  phase  of  tender 
Sentiment  springs  into  form,  repeating 
The  old  sweet  story  in  its  winsome  way. 
Oh!  silver  tongues  may  sway  the  multitude 
And  human  voices  have  wondrous  charming 
Cadences,  but  they  who  read,  through  brim' 

ming 
Eyes,  in  golden  silence,  the  unwritten 


XATIVE   WOODS.  17!) 


Language  of  the  lowly  flowers,  hold 
A  delightful  cypher  which  unlocks  all 
Mysteries  of  expression. 


OPPORTUNITY. 


Not  on  the  delicate  pure  expanse 

Of  a  frail  and  fading  page, 
Whose  very  existence  hangs  in  doubt 

And  dims  with  the  dust  of  age, 

Not  on  the  restless,  varying  sand, 
By  beautiful  wave-washed  shore, 

The  noblest  motto  of  firmest  hand 
You  may  hardly  trace  an  hour. 

Not  on  the  marble  so  cold  and  white, 
Which  the  chisel  and  the  steel, 

May  cut  to  its  hard  and  pulseless  heart 
Impressions  as  they  will. 

I  stood  in  an  olden  place  of  graves, 

Vaults   dim  and  shadowy, 
Where  some  but'a  little  time  had  lain 

And  some  for  a  century. 

And  the  wild  and  tangled  undergrowth 

Encompassed  many  a  stone, 
Whose  gray  and  tarnished  surface  pained 

The  eye  to  look  upon. 

The  sculptured  work  of  mightiest  art 

With  its  outlines  true  and  fail- 
Shall  sometime  crumble,  and  in  the  dust 
Lay  the  glory  it  doth  wear. 


180  LEAFLETS   FROM 

'Not  upon  these — with  diamond  point 

And  your  pen  of  living  light, 
No  time's  effacing  touch   destroys 
The  tablet  on  which  you   write. 

On  susceptible,  unfolding  souls, 

Earnestly,  prayerfully, 
With  bold  true  stroke  and  unerring  mark 

Engrave  for  eternity. 

INTERLUDE. 


Sometime  thy  restless  feet 
Keeping  swift  time  to  thought's   impatient 

march, 

Momentous  interests  thronging  thy  busy 
Brain  and  heavy  on  thy  heart,  will  tread 
Unconsciously  within  a  charmed  circle. 
Lo!  I  wind  to  a  sweet  minor  key  these 
Slender  threads,  their  low  and  tender  notes 
Thou  wilt  not  hear  'mid  conflict.  Some  sterner 
Music  must  stir  thy  spirit  then  and  make 
Thee  strong,  nor  when   thy  heart  from  some 

delicious 

Draught  out  of  life's  cup  doth  thrill  and  bound 
Ecstatic;  no,  not  then— the  gentle  undertone 
Vibrates  and  swells  harmonious 
With  soul-stirringanthem  and  joy 's  wild  burst 
Of  melody  as  well,  but  in  the  tumult 
Of  thy  thought  thou  canst  not  hear. 

Hark !    when 

Returned  victorious,  with  ungirt 
Armor  and  a  loosened  grasp  upon  thy 


NATIVE    WOODS.  181 


Trusty  blade-,  thou  dwellest  awhile  in  peace, 
Or  when  the  exuberant  spring  hath 
Settled  to  calm  flowing  ;  tread  lightly, 
Softly,  these  minor  chords  shall  play  entranc- 
ing 

Prelude  to  new  victories  and  richer  joy. 


TO  IDA. 


My  Daughter  dear! 
Eleven  swift  years  ago, 

Your  infant  form 
Tenderly  clasped  as  now 

For  the  first  time  I  held  ; 
So  gratefully  content 

By  mother-love  compelled 
My  head  o'er  yours  I  bent, 

And  back  to  the  dear  Giver 
(Jave  the  treasure  lent. 

With  toilsome  step 
In  erring  weakness  I've  led 

Your  tender  feet 
Life's  first  flowery  decade ; 

Made  velvet  paths  divide 
Your  pleasures  and  your  tasks, 

Oft  carried  you  beside 
Still  streams  to  bowers  of  rest — 

A  heart  of  generous  love 
Your  own  hath  pressed. 

Time's  ceaseless  wing 
Marking  each  twelvemonth's -stay 


182  LEAFLETS   FROM 


With  added  growth, 
While  it  has  taken  away 

Infantine  loveliness, 
As  Nature's  recompense 

Supplies  maturer  grace, 
Sequel  of  sober  thought, 

Inclining  to  the  way 
The  wise  have  sought. 

My  anxious  heart, 
Conscious  of  impotence 

In  best  intent 
Of  human  moral  sense, 

Upbears  you,  'mid  alarms 
From  foes  without — within, 

To  Him  whose  sheltering  arms 
Loving  and  wide  shall  stay 

The  feet  that  early  walk 
The  narrow  way. 

My  Daughter  dear ! 
Life  is  a  blessed  boon, 

But  once  received 
Never  hath  respite — soon 

The  level,  blooming  way 
Ascends  and  narrows — oft 

Rocky  and  barren  ;  they 
Must  climb  who  walk  aloft 

With  steadiness  and  care, 
And  spirits  animate 

By  purer  air. 

So  meekly  learn, 
My.  child,  your  course  to  shape, 




NATIVE   WOODS.  183 


Quick  to  iliscern 
The  heavenly  Guide  who  keeps 

Invisible  cognizance, 
Humble,  obedient 

To  softest  inward  voice, 
Stern  toward  self— lenient 

To  other,  crowning  your  choice 
With  sweet  content. 

Thus  life  shall  be 
To  you,  in  beginning 

And  continuance, 
The  sum  of  good,  winning 

Golden  approval,  and 
The  beautiful  bowed  soul 

By  God's  renewing  hand, 
From  sin's  pressure,  shall  rise 

Elastic  to  regain 
Its  native  skies. 


•EXAMPLE    IS   BETTER    THAN    PRE- 
CEPT." 


What  will  you  tell  that  little  one 
Meeting  the  steadfast  look, 

Discovering  springs  of  action 
As  out  of  an  open  book? 

How  will  you  answer  the  questions, 
Eager,  straightforward,  true, 

Sifting  all  flimsy  pretensions 
Faithfully  through  and  through  ? 


184  LEAFLETS   FROM 


Can  you  bear  the  glance  of  childhood 
Steady  and  keen  and  bright, 

Like  a  glowing  burning  sun-glass 
Or  wondrous  second  sight? 

A  critic  close  at  your  elbow, 

Or  sitting  at  your  side, 
Discerning  each  look  and  gesture, 

Peering  unwearied 

In  at  the  curious  windows 

You  vainly  strive  to  veil, 
Divining  your  hidden  purposes, 

Divining  when  they  fail? 

Swerve  from  the  straight  line  of  duty, 

Err  from  the  law  of  love— 
The  cheek  of  delicate  beauty 

Flushes  with  hot  reproof. 

Dare  tolerate  crooked  deceit 
In  thought,  in  act,  in  word, 

Lo !  the  child  on  the  judgment  seat 
Maketh  swift  protest  heard. 

Recount  now  how  oft  in  a  day, 

To  this  small  tribunal 
You  have  been  hastened  away, 

Despite  remonstrance  all. 

To  answer  with  earnest  pleading 

Trifling  discrepancies 
Between  theory  and  practice, 

Condemned  before  clear  eyes. 


NATIVE    WOODS.  185 


To  he  truly  what  we  would  seem, 

To  do  as  we  require 
Is  our  simple  daily  lesson — 

Can  we  learn  a  higher? 

Oh!  skillful  and  austere  teachers, 
In  your  midst  sits  a  child, 

\Vho  is  nearer  to  the  kingdom 
Pure  and  undeftled. 


DAY-BREAK. 


Fannie  is  sleeping 

In  yon  curtained  room,  while  the  slant 
Sun  uprises  bright  and  high,  the  vision 
<  >f  an  endless  day  begins.     All  the  night 
Long,  affection's  various  shapes  were  gliding 
Noiselessly  about  her  pillow,  tender 
Care  and  tireless  watch  waiting  love's  lightest 
Bidding.    The  vital  flame  glimmered 
And  paled  before  the  morn's  refulgence, 
Going  out  ere  full  meridian  like 
An  exhausted  taper. 

Scarce  whiter 
The  blanched   cheek  and   pallid   brow,  than 

when 

The  soul  from  the  wide  windows  of  human 
Habitation  flashed  immortal  gleams. 
Beloved  and  young,  fond  eyes  braved 
Trustfully  the  struggle  of  disease 
With  strong  vitality,  while  Hope  lit  up 
The  cheerful  tower  'mid  a  lone  waste  of  Fear. 

,t.  J, 


186  LEAFLETS  FROM 


Freighted  thus  with  untold  earthly  treasure, 
Life's  little  bark   went  down,   up   from   its 

wreck 

Casting  a  precious  fragment  on  th<>  shore 
Of  time.     We  have  seen  the  beautiful  temple, 

once 
Illumined   by  spiritual  presence,  closed  and 

barred. 
Hushed  are  the  halls  late  echoing  tuneful 

voice 

Of  song.    The  leaden  mists  of  loneliness 
And  desolation,  settling  down,  well  nigh 
Obscure  the  sky. 

Oh!  grieved  heart, 
Bleeding  and  faint  with  unavailing  woe, 

Thy  murmuring  cease ; 
Storm-driven  and  tempest-tossed, 

Nearing  some  dangerous  coast's 

Delusive  ease, 

Accept  safe  conduct  and  glad  entrance 
Into  the  port  of  Peace. 

How  canst  thou  view 
From  this  low  stand-point  the  thick  coming 

years' 

Eventful  march? 
How  shield  thy  best-beloved 
From  unadmonished  ill, 

Inevitable  pain  ? 
How  shade  from  eyes  bedimmed  by  frequent 

tears, 
The  coloring  of  life? 


JL 

NATIVE   WOODS.  187 


If  earthly  love 
Be  the  glad  sum  of  happiness  below, 

The  portion,  sweet, 
Whk-h  hath  a  spice  of  gall 
Ever  embittering, 

Oh  !  what  .shall  fully  prove 
Delightful  taste  of  the  unmingled  fount 
Flowing  above? 

Unselfish  joy 

Shall,  sharpest  pang  of  sorrow  thou  dost  feel, 
Quickly  destroy. 

If  Christ  is  life, 
To  die  is  wondrous  gain  ; 
Victorious  crowns,  Pie  can  dispose  at  will, 
And  end  the  strife. 


A  JUNE  BOQUET. 


Radiant  through  last  night's  tears 
Flower-faces  beam  on  me  a  sweet  surprise, 

Over  the  garden  gate  a  generous  hand 
Proffers  a  lovely,  unexpected  prize. 

In  the  June  sunshine  revelling 
My  roses  wander  in  their  own  wild  way, 

This  rose  knew  careful  culture,  in  rich  blush 
And  liberal  fragrance  it  doth  well  repay. 

Clustering  snowy  Viburnum, 

Heartsease  in  velvet  tricolor,  past  praise, 
Tiny  gold  buttons  crowning  slender  stems, 

And  quivering  pendants  upon  leafy  sprays. 

I  i 

+.  -4. 


-  T 

18S  LEAFLETS   FROM 


Tenderly  touch  them,  living  things, 
Wondrous  in  beauty  us  diverse  in  kind, 

Simple  and  pure,  their  voiceless  eloquence 
Thrills  the  mysterious  universe  of  Mind. 

This  summer  day  wears  added  grace, 
The   tinge   of    kindness    mellows  all    my 
thought, 

And  shining  threads  across  the  sober  web— 
Life's  else  dull  fabric,  tastefully,  are  caught. 


INVITATION, 


Come  now  and  be  my  brother;  look  thou  here, 

See  how  the  circle  is  al!  incomplete, 

And  how  love  runs   to    waste.     My  parents  ! 

weak  words 

Are  insignificant  to  measure  out 
Their  portion.     My  husband  !     Draw    a    veil 

round  my  heart's 

Holy  of  holies,  sacred  to  him.     My  little 
Ones — life  of  my  life  !     But  there  is  many  a 
Chamber  warm  and  large  waiting  a  guest. 
Wilt  enter  there  and  dwell?     Wilt  gather  up 
Some  of  the  golden  links  and  bind  unto  thy 
Spirit?    Hast  no  need?  hath  the  great  hollow 
Worldso  kindly  dealt  with  thee  that  thou  hast 
Never  felt  this  longing  undefined 
And  undefinable— have  dearer  loves 
With  their  mysterious  presence   barred   the 

door  ? 
Were  I  to  offer  thee  a  delicate  harp 


T 

NATIVE    WOODS.  189 


Whose  cords    were    trembling    with    swc-r' 

-(»unds,  wouldst  thou 

Refuse  the  gift,  because,  forsooth,  the  setting 
Were  less  rare  and  beautiful?    The  Summer 
Breath  evokes  ^Eolian  airs.    The  soul 
<  )f  song  is  silenr.  in  the  untouched  harp. 
Pronounce  \ve  never  the  tone  of  any 
Instrument  till   we  have  swept  its  strings- 
won 

For  ourselves  some  masterful  response. 
Here,  try  thy  skill,  and  awaken  melody 
If  melody  there  be. 

AH  JUST  FIFTH. 


It  »;i^  a  ni-iit  uf  .sturm.  Imt  the  morning  broke  clear  and  beau- 
tiful. \\'e  stt'pped  out  from  the  presence  of  death  and  stood  a  mo- 
ment in  the  serene  light. 

Hail  lovely  morn  ! 

Baptized  in  light, 
Thy  wondrous  calm  is  born 

Of  storm  and  night. 
What  tidings  late  from  heaven  ? 

Before  thy  earliest  ray 
Heralds  of  brighter  day 

Were  sent  to  our  beloved. 

With  wistful  look 

Surpassing  speech, 
Midway  'tween  worlds  lie  took 

Survey  of  each, 
While  thought  became  too  great 

To  sound  with  mortal  tongue— 


4- 

190  LEAFLETS   FKOM 

And  the  new  heavenly  song 
Is  not  for  our  dull  ears. 

So  peacefully 

The  silver  cord 
Loosened  its  tenure, 

As  late  fledged  bird 
Fluttering  softly  up, 

Soaring  in  glad  surprise 
The  broad  expansive  skies 

With  growing  confidence. 

Bring  freshest  flowers, 

For  so  each  morn 
Through  the  slow  weary  hours, 

His  eyes  would  turn 
Unto  their  radiant  hues 

With  soft  admiring  gaze, 
And  lowly  spoken  praise— 

"Are  they  not  beautiful  ?" 

Oh!  life  so  brief, 

(And  yet  so  long 
We  sometimes  ask  relief,) 

Thy  ties  are  strong; 
We  feel  the  grander  swell, 

We  stretch  the  upward  wing, 
But  then  we  turn  and  cling 

To  what  is  tangible. 

As  side  by  side 

This  rugged  road 
We  walk,  oft  sorely  tried, 

Following  our  Lord, 


NATIVE   WOODS.  191 

We  seem  to  catch  a  gleain 

Bright  as  of  opening  Heaven, 
And  h> !  wings  have  been  given 

Some  of  our  company. 

Shall  we  say  "Nay, 
Plod  here  with  us," 

Or  gird  us  patiently 
To  brave  our  loss  ? 

Assured  of  their  sweet  gain- 
Confident  they  will  wait 

First  at  the  pearly  gate 
When  we  are  entering. 

Oh  !  faith,  thy  flight 

Is  loftier, 
Beyond  this  human  sight 

Intense  and  clear, 
Evidence  of  the  unseen, 

Substance  of  highest  hope, 
Lift  our  low  vision  up 

Toward  the  Unsearchable. 


TO  LILLIAN. 


No  gift  in  my  esteem, 

My  precious  child,  would  seem 

Too  great  to  crown 
The  blooming  year,  that  now 
Its  seal  upon  your  brow 

Drops  lightly  down. 

No  fixed  apparent  line 
Marks  with  visible  sign 


192  LEAFLETS    FROM 

The  period, 

When  childhood's  fairy  reign 
Approaches  the  domain 

Of  Maidenhood. 

Yet  my  fond  eye  can  see 
The  dawn  of  sweet  maturity 

In  your  young  heart ; 
In  all  the  household  need, 
With  loving  helpful  heed 

You  bear  a  part. 

And  when  too  heavily 
Life's  burdens  upon  me 

So  often  press, 
Your  slender  shoulders  bo\v, 
Electric  currents  flow 

Through  mute  caress. 

Yet  through  my  blessed  gain 
Quivers  a  thought  of  pain, 

For  well  I  know 
Your  sensitive  heart  must  share 
The  sorrows  others  bear, 

Where'er  you  go. 

I  wreathe  you  o'er  with  love 
Around,  beneath,  above, 

My  garlands  twine, 
All  daily  sweet  supply, 
All  tenderest  sympathy, 

Is  but  its  sign. 

And  if  the  consciousness 
Of  steadfast  love  is  bliss, 


T 

NATIVE    WOODS. 


Rejoicing  know 
The  heart  that  held  yon  tirst 
Forever  holds—  sit  worst 

fan  not  let  go. 

1  covet  earnestly 
A  better  legacy 

For  you  than  earth, 
The  portion  of  the  blest 
Whose  chastened  lives  attest 

Their  royal  birth. 

So  shall  the  fleeting  years 
Prove  white-winged  messengers, 

Fluttering  down 
From  Heaven's  infinite  blue, 
Deftly  to  fashion  you 

A  starry  crown. 


SEPTEMBER  18xir,  1872. 


"All  Heav'n, 

And  happy  constellation*  on  that  hour 
Shed  their  selected: influence." 

Lift  up  your  eyes 
In  glad  surprise 
To  see  from  dark-browed  night 
Such  tender  splendor  greet  your  sight 
This  day  of  days. 

The  atmosphere 
So  pure  and  dear 
Aspires  on  spirit  wings 


-J- 


1!M  JJ-:AFLKTS  FROM 

To  waft  the  sublunary  things 
Of  human  lot. 

The  sunbeam's  glow 
•Suffusing  now 
This  dear  familiar  house 
Walls  and  windows  become  luminous, 
And  gilt-edged  all. 

The  spreading  trees 
Tossed  by  the  breeze 
Scatter  the  changeful  light, 
Checker  the  sward — the  lawn  is  bright. 
Anon  subdued. 

This  shining  scene 
Inlaid  between 
You  fold  fragrant  memories, 
Embalm  the  sacred,  by-gone  day-. 
And  tremulous, 

Arise  to  wear, 
With  graceful  care, 
( >*tr  the  daughter's  modest  gems 
And  sister's  paler  diadem, 
The  bridal  pearls. 

Friendship  true  and  tried, 
On  every  side, 
Gird  the  new  horizon 
Of  your  invisible  unknown, 
With  promise  bows. 

Xo  earthly  gift 
Can  so  uplift 
Manhood's  loftiest  aim, 


XATIVK    WOODS.  I'.'") 


i ),.  o-nice  a  womanhrxHl  supreme, 
As  Heaven's  do\ver. 

So  dark  or  bright 
Enshrining   Might 
Walk  ever  in  the  glow 
<  )t'  the  eternal  changeless  Xow, 
And  know  no  night. 


STEPS  OF  FAITH  FALL  OX  THF 
VOID  AND  FIXD  THE  ROCK   IVK- 
XEATH." 


Along  the  busy  thoroughfare 

A  father  led  his  child. 
One  tiny  finger  grasped  his  palm, 
Secure,  she  walked  and  smiled. 

The  way  grew  narrow,  and  the  croud 
Compelled  a  moment's  .stand, 

While  the  small  voice  imploring  said, 
"Dear  father,  take  my  hand." 

Onward  with  swift  and  eager  feet. 

Beset  with  vague  alarm, 
Seeing  not,  but  clinging  fast 

To  the  strong  father's  arm. 

Onward,  but  the  brave  impetus 
O'erflowed  the  brimming  cup, 

Tear-laden  rose  the  tremulous  cry, 
"Oh  father,  take  me  up." 

So  in  some  clear  and  sunny  paths. 
We  lightly  hold  and  own 


•-J- 


19C>  LEAFLETS    FROM 

Our  Father's  kind  extended  hand, 
Or  try  to  walk  alone. 

But  the  rough  places  and  the  hosts 
Opposing,  bring  a  stand, 

Our  human  weakness  falters  out, 
"Dear  Father,  take  my  hand." 

The  way  grows  perilous,  we  cling 
With  the  strong  grasp  of  hope, 

Out  of  the  depths  cry  mightily, 
"Oh  Father,  take  me  up." 

Oh  !  everlasting  arms  of  love, 
Tender  and  close  enfold, 

Xor  let  us  on  the  sunny  slopes, 
Relax  our  child-like  hold. 


'PUT  YE  ON  THE  LORD  JEST'S 
CHRIST." 


Put  Thee  on,  Lord  !  ah  how? 

Before  such  glorious  dress 
My  humble  stature  shrinks 

To  veriest  lowliness. 

Put  Thee  on,  Lord,  all-fair 
All-lovely  as  thou  art! 

Can  I  such  raiment  wear 
Over  this  wayward  heart? 

Shall  matchless  symmetry 
Clothe  sad  deformity? 

Shall  heavenly  radiance 
Transfigure  common  clay? 


•h-  -4 

NATIVE    WOODS.  197    ' 


Will  not  these  sin-stains  mar 

So  spotless  an  array, 
Or  fleshly  contact  soon 

.Sully  its  purity? 

Shall  costly  ornament, 

Xot  proudest  princess  wear, 
Gilding  these  lowly  streets 

My  daily  garb  appear? 

Ah  yes!  over  the  rags 
Of  all  self-righteousness, 

Dispose  the  shining  folds 
Of  this  resplendent  dress. 

Put  Thee  on,  Lord?  I  will, 
Thy  spirit  helping  me; 

Gird  me  that  1  may  wear 
Thee,  meekly,  day  by  day. 


"IX  EVERYTHING  GIVING  THANKS.' 


Thanksgiving!    Come,  my  soul, 

Record  the  mercies  of  one  fleeting  day  ; 
What  moments  o'er  thee  rolled 

With  love  tokens  unblest, 

Unfraught  with  happiness, 

Since  morn  of  yesterday? 

What  careful  thought  of  thine 

Led  thy  oft  wayward  steps  this  pleasant 

road? 
These  skies  with  lustre  shine, 

This  landscape  sweetly  smiles, 


198  I.KAFLET.S   FROM 

Melodious  sounds  the  while 
Await  thee  all  abroad. 

No  hidden  painful  thorn 

In  this  rose-path  hath   pierced  thy   ten- 
der feet, 
On  unseen  pinions  borne 

Above  this  lower  sphere, 

Where  Love's  warm  atmosphere 

Surrounds  thy  blest  retreat. 

When  wrapt  in  last  night's  rest, 
Intoxicate  with  bliss,  thy  closing  eye 

Forgot  its  watchfulness, 
Whose  kind  protecting  Hand 
Kept  thee,  while  o'er  the  land 
Tempests  raved  furiously? 

When  the  swift  thunderbolt 

Freighted  with  death  thy  head  was  hang- 
ing o'er, 
Whose  word  of  stern  command 

Shielded  thee  lovingly, 

And  bade  it  passing  by 

Enter  another  door? 

Dost  see  this  circling  Arm? 

Beholdest  thou  marks  of  especial  care  ? 
And  doth  intense  alarm 

Extort  thank-offering 

Thou  dost  not  daily  bring, 

Spontaneous — not  rare? 

Know  then— utmost  extent, 
And  knowing,  melt  at  thy   ingratitude, 


NATIVE    WOODS. 

This  sure  protection  sent 
Is  but  a  little  drop 
In  thy  o'er-flowing  cup 
Of  rich,  unmeasured  good. 

What  narrow  tortuous   paths 

(japing  with  pitfalls  thou  hast  trod  secure, 
Traversed  what  giddy  heights, 

Whence  one  uneven  step, 

One  faltering  look  below 

Made  swift  destruction  sure. 

Take  thy  unfailing  chart, 

Survey   the  landmarks  on  the  heavenly 

road, 
Bethink  thee,  dost  thou  walk 

Humiliation's  vale, 

On  Mount  Delectable, 

Or  Beulah,  blest  of  God. 


GOSSAMER. 


What  is  this, 
Weaving  through  October  sunshine 

A  bright  fantastic  thread, 
Caught  up  from  lowly  grass  blades, 

Festooned  overhead, 
In  the  light 

Gayly  changeable, 
Floating  in  the  shadow 

Almost  invisible? 


4- 


r 

200  LEAFLETS    FROM 


What  magic 
Deftly  drew  so  slender  fibre 

Through  countless  skillful  toils, 
Kver  cunningly  entangling 

In  its  silken  coils? 
Mimic  bars, 

Like  the  world's  etiquette 
Closely  restricting 

Every  thoughtless  step. 

Who  shall  say, 
With  a  confidence  assured, 

Where  this  dextrous  weaver  is, 
Busily  mending  the  broken  web, 

Or  guiding  its  broideries, 
Silk,  broadcloth, 

Clothing  in  silver  lace, 
Adding  flowing  fringes 

With  a  peculiar  grace? 

Musingly 
I  follow  this  labyrinth, 

Conning  some  proverb  wise, 
When  a  length  of  ready  cable 

Is  spun  across  my  eyes  ; 
Aha-ha ! 

I  suddenly  seem  to  hear, 
With  this  mocking  whisper, 

"Only  a  gossamer!" 

Society 

Stretching  in  devious  circles 
A  maze  of  perplexity, 


— - 

NATIVE    WOODS.  201    i 


We  pursue  the  tangled  skein 

( )f  ultimate  destiny, 
Oft  blinded 

And  turned  sadly  amiss 
By  those  glittering  snares, 

Cross  threads  of  selfishness. 

By  and  by 
The  vigorous  north  wind  breathes 

Over  this  hazy  air, 
Sweeping  lightly,  suddenly  clear 

This  fret  work  of  gossamer; 
By  and  by 

The  sober  Winter  of  fact 
Will  scatter  the  flimsy  veil 

Between  motive  and  act. 


FIFTEENTH  WEDDING    ANNI- 
VERSARY. 


All  crystal  gifts  be  yours,  beloved! 
Crystal  gifts  mirror  crystal  wishes  well, 
( Brittle  and  frail,  alas  !  tho'  fair,)  as 
Perishable  shrine,  they  sometimes  'scape 
Our  fond  possession,  falling  to  dust,  but  the 

pure 

Wish  inclosed,  as  spirit  incarnate, 
Lifts  beyond  all  that  shatters,  itself 
A  crystal  essence. 

One  decade  and  a  half 
Your  separate  lives  have  blended.    'Twereas 


202  LEAFLETS   FKOM 

Two  mountain  springs  foaming  in  glad  ex- 

uberence 

Past  rock  and  root  and  shelving  terraces, 
In  the  sweet  vale  below  settled  to  common 
Level,  confluent  henceforth. 

Through  what  still 
Places  or  unquiet  straits  the  sacred 
Stream  since  swept,  not  mine  to  know.     My 

subtle 
Thought    makes  difference,    harmony,    and 

dearest 

Love  consistent  with  unlikeness.  'Tis  depth 
And  swiftness  meeting  obstacles  gives  sparkle, 
And  depths  are  still  when  surface  ripples  rise 
And  effervesce. 

I  wish  'neath  crystal  skies, 
Through  crystal  periods,  o'er  crystal  channel, 
Your  united  course  to  crystal  raelody 
Set  toward  the  crystal  River.     How  fair. 
How  clear,   how  deep,  River  of  Life!   thy 

shining 

Waters  stretch  beyond  terrestrial  limits; 
Lives  rich  and  glad,  lives  troubled,  worn  and 

sad, 

Herein  eliminate  all  that  is  earthy, 
Clear  as  crystal  flowing  from  the  Throne, 
On  either  side  the  trees  of  healing 
Standing  in  crystal  light.     Himself  the  crystal 
Source  in  the  Celestial  City  of  our  God. 


NATIVE    WOODS. 


TWIN    IMMORTALS. 


Budded,  to  wither — born,  to  die — 
Life's  origin  and  end,  bounded  by  one 
Pale  moon — the  scope  of  its  possession, 
Compassed  by  a  span — duration,  summed 
In  inches— a  cradle's  breadth,  sufficient 
For  two  graves. 

Elaborate  vases, 

Fashioned  to  enclose  spiritual  essence- 
Luminous  dust — visible  semblance 
Of  the  invisible— exquisite  shapes 
A  passing  moment,  tenanted  by  angels — 
Rare    pictures,    framed    betwixt    Time  and 

Eternity— 

Twin-embryo  of  Immortality. 
Thus,  side  by  side,  lay  them  inseparate, 
•Softly  dispose  their  white  baptismal  robes — 
The  Blessed  walk  in  white— bring  mrytle, 
Wreath  it  so ;  its  glossy  leaf  and  colorless 
Blossom,  fresh  with  love's  early  dew,  befit 
So  pure  a  burial.    Birth  was  but  death  ; 
Death  but  another  birth.     Cherub  and  Seraph 
Are  the  kindred  terms  infant  and  man 
Approximate.     Progression  gains  in  Heaven. 
God's  gre^t  Economy  produces  not 
Misshapen  characters,  here  nor  beyond. 
Fetters  and  clogs  hinder  the  earth-born 
From  his  inheritance — scales  dimming — 
Baits  alluring — weakness  and  weariness 
O'ercoming — development  slow 
And  imperfect— long  years  of  rudimental 
Lessons. 


204  J.KAFLKTS    FROM 

The  Heaven-born  rise  the  eternal 
Cycles  with  untiring  wing— they  go 
From  strength  to  strength,  beginning  with- 
out end. 

SLEEPING. 


Softly  through  the  gossamer 

Of  October  mist 
Stream  the  chastened  sunbeams, 

In  her  cradle;  kiss 
Little  Nellie  sleeping. 

On  the  light  winds  murmuring 
Through  the  forests  brown, 

Stately  monarchs  playfully 
Cast  their  leafy  crowns 
Little  Nellie  wooing. 

Beautiful  unconsciousness  I 

In  that  hushed  room 
Vain  is  nature's  charming; 

Universal  gloom 
Sitteth  on  the  threshold. 

Voices  tender— tremulous 
\Vith  unfathomed  love, 

Pleading  agonized  caresses, 
Powerless  to  move 
Little  Nellie's  slumber. 

Ere  to-day  meekly  seeketh 

Its  returnless  bourne, 
Brighter  visions  glorify 


NATIVE    WOODS.  205 


The  enraptured  morn 
Little  Nellie  knoweth. 

Mourn  we  the  forsaken  temple, 

The  deserted  shrine, 
Dimly  through  tears  discerning 

(Jod,  supremely  kind, 
Little  Nellie  taking. 

Weary  thoughts  outwamlering 
Through  the  dark  unknown, 

With  unutterable  longing 
For  the  darling  one, 
Little  angel  Nellie. 

Deem  not  the  blessed  Saviour 

Stern  and  pitiless, 
Kven  when  His  hand  is  heavy. 

Love  is  measureless, 
Ceaseless,  loving  you. 

Doubting  never,  O!  remember 

How  He  walked  below 
Touched  by  sorrow,  sweetly  soothing, 

Willing,  waiting  now 
Thus  to  comfort  you. 

Bearing  life's  severest  pressure, 

Sternest  discipline, 
Thus  to  lighten  tenderly 

Human  suffering, 
Knowing  every  pang. 

Softly  walk,  joyful  parents 
Of  an  angel  child, 


LEAFLETS   FROM 

Overpast  this  wilderness 
Heavenly  prospects  smile, 
Irradiate  all  between. 


WITH  THE  GIFT  OF  A  FANCIFUL 
CROSS. 


I  would  that  every  cross  you  bear  be 
Fashioned  tenderly-— the  while  I  shape 
This  slender  shaft,  I  symbolize  my  thought. 
Clear  set  against  the  shadow,  its  white  arms 
Seem  appealing  to  an  invisible 
Strong  one.     May  love  determine  and  adjust 
For  you,  adapting  to  each  need  fit  strength, 
And    grace— while  meekly    bending  to  the 

burden 

You  go  on  conquering  by  this  sign, 
And  joyful  wear  after  the  cross  the  crown. 

"USING  AS  NOT  ABUSING." 


Oh!  ruby  clusters!  hanging  in  the  sun 
Your  ripe  abundance,  full  of  health -giving 

Juices,  cool  and  fresh  to  fevered  lips, 

Who  would  guess  ye  might  be  turned  to 

poison, 
And  with  hot  torrent  rush  through  human 

veins 
To  madden  and  destroy  ? 

Oh!  luscious  grapes! 
In  royal  purple,  medicine  and  food, 
Beautiful  to  the  eyes,  bearing  benisons 


NATIVE    WOODS. 

Of  the  sick  ;  the  limit  of  your  usefulness 
Is  iui>t,  when  from  the  foaming  vintage 
A  serpent  shapes  and  moves  itself  aright. 
Oh!  Yellow  fields  of  waving  grain  !  whose 
Liberal  store  repairs  the  wastes 
Of  life,  and  enters  vigorous  its  large 
Activities,  how  pitiful  that  your 
Perverted  use  should  raise  the  cry  for  bread 
Where  bread  is  not,  and   mock  life-long  the 

hunger 
Of  the  heart! 

Ah  !  pertinent  counsel,  "Using 
As  not  abusing."    If  wholesome  good, 
By  straining  its  intent,  become 
'Lhe  instrument  of  sorrow  and  destruction, 
Shall  we  repeat  the  experiment, 
And  multiply  the  sorrow,  and  defy 
Destruction  ?    Will  not  a  true  philanthrophy 
Wisely  choose  abstinence,  and  call  that  use 
Abuse,  which  might  offend  a  brother? 


1825—187.",. 


Open  the  doors  of  welcome, 

For  of  all  the  days  of  the  year 
The  Golden  Anniversary, 

The  auspicious  day  is  here. 

Crown  it,  beautiful  snow-wreaths, 

Rather  than  laurel  or  bay ; 
It  heralds  life's  ripe  December 

And  not  its  blossoming  May. 

Hh-  -4- 


r 

:2(IS  LEAFLETS    FKOM 


From  their  scattered  homes  they  tty 
Back  to  the  sheltering  nest. 

Whose  cordial  hospitality 
Widens  for  every  guest. 

In  the  midst  of  his  children 
Sits  the  Patriarch  hoary, 

And  matronly  Queen   Esther 
With  more  than  regal  glory. 

For  of  all  precious  treasures, 
Treasures  of  love  are  best, 

And  home  the  fairest  kingdom 
A  monarch  ever  possessed. 

Like  Abraham  of  renown, 
He  left  his  country  and  kin 

To  rear  this  altar  of  worship, 
And  gather  a  household  in. 

Ln  a  stern  and  rugged  soil 
Laid  his  firm  foundation  stone ; 

This  group  of  gentler  graces 
From  virtuous  root  has  grown. 

As  in  the  olden  forest 
The  thrifty  saplings  spring, 

And  spread  out  comely  branches 
Where  folded  leaflets  cling, 

So  doth  this  family  tree 

Perpetuate,  and  renew 
Its  life,  in  mature  vigor 

And  budding  loveliness,  too. 


NATIVE    WOODS.  209 


Complete  now  the  golden  link, 
Encircle  the  fireside  round, 

Pronounce  the  magic  syllables, 
Let  innocent  cheer  abound, 

While  with  voices  of  blessing 

We  mingle  joyfully 
Our  best  congratulations 

On  this  half  a  century. 

Some  days  shone  glad  and  sunny, 
Some  gloomed  sober  and  gray  ; 

Life's  dial  points  past  noon  tide 
And  its  hours  hasten  away. 

Around  this  hallowed  altar 

Where  fifty  years  ago 
This  pair  alone  were  witnesses, 

We  reverently  bow, 

And  ask  that  the  shady  hillside 
At  evening  time  may  be 

Lit  like  a  golden  sunset, 
With  radiant  prophecy. 


TO  MY  DEAR  BOY. 


While  October's  mellow  skies 
Fringed  the  woods  with  flame, 

Straying  down  this  valley 
A  little  pilgrim  came; 

Neither  rank  nor  fortune 
Did  he  claim  to  bring 


210  LEAFLETS   FROM 

But  he  took  possession 

Like  a  very  king. 
Gentle  hands  were  gathering 

All  the  tender  flowers 
Into  sunny  corners 

Ere  the  frosty  hours; 
But  no  flower  was  tended 

With  such  dainty  care 
As  this  frail  exotic, 

Nestled  in  its  fair 
Covert,  snug  and  fleecy, 

Through  the  Winter  da.y 
Basking  in  the  sunshine 

Love  maketh  alway. 

So  the  blue  eyes  opened 

Wonder-wide,  to  view 
Scenes  and  faces  changeful, 

Days  and  objects  new, 
Learned  to  light  with  pleasure, 

Learned  with  mute  appeal 
Cunningly  folded  secrets 

Hourly  to  reveal. 
Time  flew  on  unheeding 

How  the  marvels  grew, 
From  the  inner  temple 

Glimmering  softly  though, 
While  like  rare  enchantment 

Shone  the  fleshjy  veil, 
And  the  hints  of  promise 

Were  perpetual. 
What  a  group  of  graces 


NATIVE    WOODS. 

Link  this  recreant  star 
By  divine  connections 
To  the  Home  afar! 


Wondrous  transformation ! 

Is  this  sprightly  boy 
Both  my  pride  and  comfort, 

My  torment  and  my  joy. 
The  curious  manikin 

From  the  land  unknown, 
From  a  fairy's  stature 

These  proportions  grown? 
Fourteen  revolutions 

Mark  this  natal  day, 
But  I'm  dreaming — dwelling 

On  that  far-away 
Sweet  period,  when  life 

In  folded  beauty  lay 
Before  my  little  pilgrim — 

Himself  a  mystery ; 
When  the  small  figure  clasped 

Securely  to  my  side, 
Within  that  tropic  circle 

Was  fully  satisfied  ; 

Before  uncertain  steps 

Wandered  to  explore, 
And  conquered  mysteries 

Stirred  love  of  conquest  more ; 
Before  the  enemy 

Possession  coveted, 


*L  »« 

212  L,KAFI,KTS   PROM 


This  soul  a  new  arena 

Of  issues  great  and  dread. 
I  would  lead  the  dear  feet 

In  wisdom's  pleasant  way, 
I  would  win  the  young  heart 

To  love  the  right  ahvay. 
But  lo !  the  royal  road 

Leads  upward  to  the  hills, 
Human  weakness  falters 

•  Nor  half  its  hope  fulfills; 
Oh  !  in  doubtful  moments 

May  a  tender  voice 
Or  Ibnd  compelling  touch 

Influence  his  choice. 

Sometimes  my  sturdy  laddie 

Refuses  to  perceive 
Love  in  its  stern  disguises 

That  restrain  or  grieve, 
Not  always  inward  whisper 

Effectual  to  win 
The  impetuous  spirit 

From  itself  and  sin ; 
The  unwilling  service, 

The  impatient  word 
Is  spice  of  bitterness 

Through  all  my  comfort  stirred, 
But  the  precious  tokens 

Of  tender  thoughtful  care 
Sweeter  than  honey-drops 

Unto  my  hunger  are. 
Restless,  wayward  hero ! 

Do  you  care  to  know 


NATIVE    WOODS.  213 


How  my  sure  love  follows 

Wheresoe'er  you  go? 
In  the  busy  daytime, 

In  the  silent  night, 
Strong  as  triple  cable, 

Limitless  as  light. 

Crowning  you  with  blessing, 

Ht-'sivy  when  you  fail, 
Alert —rouse-ions—  hopeful 

If  the  right  prevail, 
With  no  small  ambition 

Ever  satisfied, 
Coveting  the  best  gifts, 

Treasures  that  abide, 
Sure  that  every  pilgrim 

(Though  the  thought  be  pain,) 
Must  through  foes  and  conflicts 

Victory  attain. 
Courage!  youthful  soldier, 

Humble,  watchful,  brave, 
Don  the  shining  armor 

Of  One  strong  to  save ; 
Love  is  ever  cognizant 

Around — beside — above — 
Who  wins  the  worthy  crown 

Is  debtor  unto  love. 


OPEN  SESAME. 


Archly  beaming  from  this  plate, 
Bead  the  mysteries  of  Fate 
In  these  dark  depths  lurking. 


4-  4- 

214  LEAFLETS   FROM 


Here  behold,  securely  chained, 
Features  them  hast  often  scanned, 
Fondly  gaze,  "mon  ami." 

Would'st  the  precious  truth  reveal? 
This  thy  truest  oracle 
Full  of  kind  assurance. 


A  LIGHT  FANCY. 
Dear  Mrs  Fanny  Brock  way  Fay, 
How  it  enlivens  a  rainy  day 

To  sit  in  pleasant  places 
With  busy  fingers  and  quiet  mind, 
Nor  hearing  the  rain,  nor  heeding  the  wind, 

Think  of  sunshiny  faces. 

They  smile  upon  us  delightfully 

From  their  niche  in  the  wall,  or  silently 

Flash  such  a  peculiar  light 
Our  chaos  of  thought  becomes  order, 
We  seem  to  have  reached  the  border 

Of  privileged  second  sight. 

"Let  there  be  light"— that  wonderful  day, 
Sprung  on  Creation  ages  away, 

Ever  since  has  been  shining 
Thro'  starlight  and  moonlight  and  sunlight, 
Through  twilight  and  firelight  and  lovelight, 

Mellowing,  warming,  refining. 

"Lesser  lights1'  too  in  variety, 
Lighters   of  doubtful  propriety, 

Innocent  "cigar  lighters," 
Content  to  fashion  a  diamond  frame 


NATIVE   WOODS.  215 


Rather  than  shine  in  a  tip  of  flame 
Requiring   "Underwriters." 

My  trio  plaiting  these  trifles  for  you 
Sought  an  appropriate  line  or  two, 

I  thought  a  gold  thread  to  spin, 
Becoming  entangled,  lo!  it  has  run 
All  over  creation,  up  to  the  sun, 

But  please  find  one  end  within. 


TEMPERANCE  CAMPAIGN  SONG. 
Sound  aloud  the  silver  trumpet! 

To  the  standard  of  the  free, 
Brothers,  rouse!  your  forces  rally, 
On  !  to  bloodless  victory  ! 

Heed  no  vain,  discordant  music, 

Scorn  unholy  bribery, 
Earnest  words  your  truest  weapons, 

Onward  press  to  victory! 

Underneath  Truth's  glorious  banner 
Fearlessly  your  strength  array; 

Mighty  energies  resistless 
Lead  you  on  to  victory ! 

Representatives  of  labor, 

Sinews  of  society, 
True  in  heart  as  high  in  purpose, 

Claim  a  speedy  victory. 

Westward  lo !  the  "star  of  empire" 
Moves  with  swift  returnless  sway, 

With  unbroken  front  march  onward, 
Resolute  to  victory! 


210  LEAFLETS   FROM 

With  a  wide  and  kind  encircling 

Of  the  loved  ones  all  the  way, 

Clasping  hands  with  wave-washed  Maine, 
Seek  no  sectional  victory. 

For  your  high  and  holy  birthright, 
Priceless  blessing  of  the  free, 

For  their  pure  administration 
Labor  hard  for  victory. 

Overturning,  Change  and  Progress 

Mark  the  world's  dark  history ; 

Some  true  men  the  Lord  hath  chosen 
Arbiters  of  destiny. 

Sound  aloud  the  silver  trumpet ! 

Hear  the  noble  standard  high ! 
Equipped  fully,  press  to  conquest, 

Sobriety  and  victory ! 


GOOD  RESOLUTIONS. 
Two  boys  were  sauntering  along 

Discussing  the  news  and  weather, 
With  an  air  of  assumed  "sang  froid" 

Boys  practice  when  together  — 
The  street  ran  black  with  fertile  loam 

Stirred  up  by  yesterday's  shower, 
With  no  promise  of  springing  grass 

Or  hint  of  delicate  flower. 

The  passers-by  shuffled  along, 
Or  trode  with  daintiest  care, 

(For  Cambridge  has  slippery  places 
The  public  must  be  aware; 


,t, 


NATIVE    WOODS.  217 


Dimly  gleaming  through  April  haze 

A  shimmer  of  gold  and  blue 
Fell,  a.s  you've  seen  a  sunbeam  fall 

Through  the  shadows  and  boys  too. 

Says  James  to  John,  "I  often  think 

Between  the  pauses  of  play, 
What  I  shall  be,  and  what;  shall  do 

Say  fifteen  ye*ars  from  to-day  ; 
Yesterday  in  a  book  I  read, 

Some  wise  one  presumed  to  say 
A  boy  at  twelve  has  a  character 

That  will  last  him  all  the  way." 

Just  then  with  brisk  business  tread, 

An  erect  and  manly  form 
Strode  by,  with  swift  and  cheery  glance 

And,  "Good  morning  boys,  good  morn," 
The  eyes  were  eager  that  followed 

That  figure  upright  and  true, 
And  John  replied,  "I'd  like  to  be 

A  man  like  that  wouldn't  you  ? 

They  pausing  sought  a  cleanly  spot, 

And  out  of  their  pockets  took 
Their  idle  hands,  and  thoughtfully 

The  mud  from  their  stout  boots  shook 
"With  the  emphasis  of  new  resolve, 

That  brightened  each  boyish  face, 
And  swelled,  a  golden  living  germ 

In  a  moist  and  sheltered  place. 

A  hum  of  fresh  young  voices  near— 
A  vision  of  fair  girl-faces, 


218  LEAFLETS   FROM 


Three  pairs  of  eyes  peered  modestly 
Like  violets  from  shady  places, 

It  truly  seemed  each  quick  sense  caught, 
And  noted  with  kindly  heed 

The  sober  purpose  of  John  and  James — 
But  they  only  said,  "Good  speed.'' 


A  PLEA  FOR  THE  BOYS. 

Spudding  in  troops  by  my  windoxv, 

Bagged,  barefoot  and  gay, 
Little  bronzed  figures  careering 

Every  hour  and  way, 
Challenge  my  fancy  to  running 

After,  in  merry  chase, 
To  find  if  these  sturdy  people 

Have  really  any  place 
In  the  great  world-work,  which  presses 

Heavily  on  the  strong, 
And  tempts  them  e'en  to  forgetting 

How  the  years  move  along. 

Some  have  sprung  from  their  door  yards, 

Like  a  dandelion 
From  a  velvet  emerald  plat, 

Pleasant  to  set  eye  on, 
Upright,  domestic,  pronounced, 

Wholesome,  happy  and  neat, 
With  unmistakable  symptoms 

Of  something  fresh  and  sweet 
In  their  careful  household  training; 

They  look  up  as  you  meet 


NATIVE   WOODS.  219 


With  fearless  and  sunny  salute- 
Yield  a  part  of  the  street. 

Others,  with  much  that's  untidy, 

Dirt  and  careless  attire, 
Mingle  some  shining  qualities, 

Kindle  with  manly  fire; 
Quick  to  discover  injustice, 

Impetuous  to  defend 
The  cause  of  the  weak  and  helpless, 

The  honor  of  a  friend  ; 
Full  of  fun-loving  and  daring, 

Whistling,  boisterous  boys, 
Defying  all  proprieties, 

Thrilling  the  air  with  noise. 

I've  looked  in  scores  of  faces, 

Eyes  black  and  brown  and  blue, 
Of  boys  who  met  my  scrutiny, 

Wakened  interest,  too. 
I  confess  a  singular  weakness 

When  I  hear  a  shout  ahoy, 
I  fall  to  computing  the  worth 

Of  the  average  boy ; 
A  swift  electric  current 

Connects  my  heart  to  his, 
Through  his  humor  and  his  pathos 

Range  my  quick  sympathies. 

Here  and  there  rises  a  hero, 
Frank,  attractive  and  free, 

Who  leads  in  the  rollicking  games, 
And  couples  visibly 


—  — r 

220  IjE A  FL,ETS   FROM 


A  stirring  magnetic  presence 

With  nature's  nobleness, 
Winning  each  best  youthful  temper's 

Hearty  response  to  his; 
The  playground  is  the  arena 

Of  fair  and  lawful  strife, 
Where  the  soul  of  the  man's  honor 

O'er  shadows  boyhood's  life. 

Alas!  there's  another  picture- 
Grieved  am  I  to  say, 

That  rosy-hued  lips  can  open 
For  profane  words  a  way  ; 

I'd  rather  have  soil  on  garments, 
On  hands,  or  blooming  face, 

Than  that  such  inner  defilement 
Should  mar  the  spirit's  grace. 

Dear  boys!  have  you  thought  what  being 
Your  person  occupies, 

Looksout  those  wonderful  windows, 
Those  speaking,  tell-tale  eyes  ? 

Have  you  thought  what  a  chancels  yours 
To  be  soldiers,  every  one 

As  brave,  as  loyal  and  steadfast 
As  the  sun  shines  upon.? 

A  daily  battle  before  you — 
Foes  worthy  of  your  steel — 

A  conquest  of  self— the  rebel- 
Control  of  tongue  and  will ; 

Shall  King  Alcohol  humble  you, 
Shall  Tobacco  ensnare, 


^ 

XAT1VK    WOODS. 


Or  vile  and  ruinous  passions 
Distort  your  features  fair? 

The  world  worships  nobility, 

Each  boy  by  right  is  prince, 
But  the  heritage  of  liberty 

lias  deep  significance; 
No  youthful  monarch  prepared 

By  careful  discipline 
To  govern  a  thriving  province, 

And  rule  his  fellow  men, 
Has  need  of  more  thorough  training, 

Safeguards  of  home  and  school, 
Than  America's  free-born  sons 

Taught  themselves  to  rule. 

I  do  not  quite  understand  them ; 

Many  curious  kinks 
Sorely  puzzle  wisest  parents, 

More  than  the  solemn  Sphinx. 
Their  innocent,  frolicsome  moods 

Make  me  heartily  glad, 
1  honor  their  brave  intentions, 

Pity  their  failures  sad; 
Because  their  possibilities 

Reach  beyond  human  ken, 
I  cherish  a  tender  regard 

For  these  embryo  men. 

Fathers  and  Mothers  at  evening 

Sitting  quiet  at  home, 
Or  sharing  social  pleasures, 

Have  the  truant  boys  come? 


222  LEAFLETS   FROM 


Or  do  thpy  around  the  corner 

With  rude,  out  breaking  glee, 
In  the  fading  twilight  gather 

To  tempt  an  enemy  ? 
Where  are  the  youth  of  the  household, 

The  country's  stalwart  hope? 
Over  the  way  in  a  bar-room, 

Tasting  the  dangerous  cup? 

Or  mingling  in  doubtful  pursuits, 

That  tarnish  the  fresh  glow 
Which  like  a  shining  aureole 

Crowns  each  innocent  brow? 
Oh  !  widen  the  bright  home-circle, 

Summon  the  wanderers  in, 
Let  pastime,  converse  and  music 

Vie  your  loved  ones  to  win. 
Treasures  you  painfully  garner 

By  toil  of  hand  or  brain 
Perish,  but  virtuous  children 

Amass  immortal  gain. 


PARODY. 

"RIENZl'S  ADDRESS  TO  THE  ROMANS." 

Friends  ! 

I  come  not  here  to  talk.    You  know  too  well 
The  story  of  our  thraldom.     We  are  staves! 
The  bright  sun  rises  to  his  course,  and  lights 
A  race  of  slaves  !    He  sets,  and  his  last  beam 
Falls  on  a  slave:  not  such  as,  swept  along 
By  the  full  tide  of  power,  the  conqueror  leads 
To  crimson  glory  and  undying  fame; 


>* 


»*" 

XATIVK    WOODS.  223 


Iliil  bate,  !<jiiofji<'  plan's!  slaves  to  a  clique 

Of  petty  tyrants,  usurpers,  cheats, 

Rich  in  superfluous  distilleries, 

In  millions  of  base  lucre,  coined 

From    blighted    human    lives,   and    broken 

hearts; 
Strong  in   their  brethren's   weakness;  only 

great 
In  potent,  giant  evil. 

Each  hour,  dark  fraud, 
Or  open  rapine,  or  protected  murder, 
Cries  out  against  them.    But  this  very  day, 
An  honest  man  my  neighbor— there  he  stands, 
Was  struck,  struck  like  a  dog,  by  one  inflamed 
With  liquid  madness,  because,  forsooth, 
He  dared  to  stand  erect  in  conscious 
Manhood,  nor  yield  the  path  to  staggering 
Footsteps, — nor  yield  his  right  to  mighty 
Protest  at  the  ballot-box. 

Be  we  men, 

And  suffer  such  dishonor?    Men,  and  rise  not 
To  wipe  the  stain  away?    Such  shames  are 

common ! 
I  have  known  deeper  wrongs.    I,  that  speak 

to  ye, 

I  had  a  brother  once,  a  gracious  boy, 
Full  of  gentleness,  of  calmest  hope, 
Of  sweet  and  quiet  joy  :  there  was  the  look 
Of  heaven  upon  his  face,  which  limners  give 
To  the  beloved  deciple ! 

How  I  loved 

That  gracious  boy !    Younger  by  fifteen  years, 
Brotht-r  at  once,  r.nd  son !    He  left  my  side, 




224  LEAFLETS   FROM 


A  summer  bloom  on  his  fair  check, — a  smile 
Parting  his  innocent  lips.  In  one  short  hour, 
That  pretty,  harmless  boy  was  poisoned.  I 

saw 

The  unsteady  step,— the  blood-shot  eye,— 
The  feverish  mania  burning 
In  his  veins, — [  saw  the  pitiful  struggle— 
The  shameful  weakness— the  sinful  yielding 
Of  innocence  and  virtue  ; — I  saw 
Him  humbled,  disgraced,  defiled, 
And  then  I  cried  for  vengeance !    House  i/c, 
Americans!    HOUSE  YE,  SLAVES! 

Have  ye  brave 

Sons?  look  to  behold  the  wily  tempter 
Haunt  their  daily  paths,  lurking  in  innocent 
Guise,  or  bold  in  deadly  purpose.    Look ! 
To  see  them  shorn  of  conscious  strength — un- 
manned— 

Dishonored — LOST,  body  and  soul! 
From  some  fierce  street   brawl  plunging  to 

headlong  ruin, 

Or  sliding  the  drunkard's  sure  declivity 
To  endless  death.     Have  ye  fair  daughters? 
Look  to  see  them  bound  to  loathsome  crea- 
tures, 
Dragging  out  their  sweet   young  lives,   in 

hopeless 

Torture;  weeping  till  tears  are  spent — plead- 
ing 

Till  breath  doth  fail— and  if  ye  dare  to  call 
For  justice  be  answered  by  a  taunt. 
Yet  this  is  fair  America — our  boasted 
Land,  who  from  her  eminence  of  Liberty 


NATIVK    WOODS.  225 


•i- 


Invites  the  world  to  counsel.— The  youngest 
Of  the  nations,  whose  broad  acres  connect 
Two  oceans ;— whose  citizens  are  kindred 
Of  all  people,  whose  laws  claim  as  foundation 
Etenutl  truth  and  equal  right. 

Why! 

Upon  land  and  sea  her  flag  is  sacred, 
And  the  oppressed  of  every  clime 
Throng  to  its  wide  protection. — Are  we 
Americans!  the  very  name  is 
Synonym  of freeman. 

Hear  ye  walls! 

That  echoed  to  the  tread  of  noble 
Martyrs,  once  again, — I  pledge  perpetual 
Enmity  to  oid  King  Alcohol! 
And  swear  the  brave  Republic  shall  be  free! 


CONGRATULATORY. 
Smile  on,  October  skies! 
Your  brilliant  changeful  dyes 

Fling  wide  and  bright, 
And  tints  of  gold  softly  enfold 

Our  horizon  to-night. 

Beam  down,  O  silent  stars ! 
With  broad  and  mellow  bars 

The  shade  light  up, 
For  wistful  eyes  seek  prophecies 

In  yonder  horoscope. 

Draw  near,  ye  trusted  friends ! 
Love  sweet  enchantment  lends 
To  bridal  hours, 


226  LEAFLETS   FROM 

And  hearts  are  stirred  while  tender  words 
Blossom  'mid  orange  flowers. 

One  treasure  rich  and  rare 
On  this  new  plighted  pair, 

Dear  Lord!  let  fall, 
The  pearls  of  truth's  immortal  youth, 

A  shining  coronal. 

No  wealth  or  costly  gift 
Shall  so  these  souls  uplift 

As  heavenly  dower. 
Do  so  reveal  thy  perfect  will, 

Thy  mystery  of  power. 

That  these  expectant  eyes 
Behold  aurora  rise 

To  cloudless  day, 
Each  hallowed  place  by  crowning  grace 

An   Eden  of  the  way. 

For  infinite  above 

Our  priceless  human  love, 

A  Sovereign  holds 
His  high  reserve  to  shape  and  swerve 

Our  wayward  human  souls. 

Sweethearts!  bow  reverently 
Before  the  ministering 

Evangel  love, 

With  warmth  and  glow  foreshadowing 
now 

The  Paradise  above. 


* 


NATIVE    WOODS. 

A  SOUVENIR. 
Snme'.vhere  I  dimly  remember 

A  legend  quaint  and  old, 
Of  a  Prince  who  gave  to  his  bride 

A  wonderful  egg  of  gold. 

At  the  touch  of  a  hidden  spring 

The  ellipse  open  flew. 
Disclosing  a  jeweled  casket 

To  her  delighted  view. 

Another  spring,  and  like  magic 

The  tiny  world  unfurls, 
Till  its  innermost  heart  reveals 

A  diadem  of  pearls. 

A  beautiful  crystal  truth 
This  fanciful  story  veils, 

Whose  key  to  life's  curious  riddle 
Applied,  no  prophecy  fails. 

Our  Prince  is  representative — 

A  type  of  noble  line — 
The  marvellous  mystical  egg 

His  sacred  marriage  sign. 

Can  she  find  the  delicate  spring 
Unclosing  the  oval  first? 

Can  she  patiently  bide  the  time 
Till  the  dainty  casket  burst? 

Will  she  tender  generous  exchange 
Guerdon  of  silver  speech  ? 

Will  she  out  of  golden  silence 
Far  beyond  language  reach? 


~  ~ 

228  LEAFLETS   FROM 


Through  Home's  radiant  ecliptic 

Ever  gracefully  move, 
Exalting  to  its  high  plane 

Humblest  service  of  love? 

If  so,  she  shall  modestly  wear 

Her  pearls— a  very  Queen 
Over  choicest  inheritance 

Mankind  has  ever  seen. 

For,  richer  than  gold  or  jewels, 

Above  rank  or  renown, 
The  pearls  of  refined  affection, 

Gather,  a  lustrous  crown. 

And  she  who  would  wear  must  win  them. 
And  he  who  gives  must  own, 

They  conquer  the  world  together — 
Neither  sovereign  alone. 


AN  EPISODE. 
Brightly  through  jewels  of  frost 

The  Christmas  sunshine  fell, 
Touching  darkness  and  shadow, 

A  shining  miracle; 
Up  and  down  through  the  dwellings 

Voices  happy  and  sweet, 
Clear  as  chime  of  silver  bells, 

Answered  hurrying  feet. 

I  heard  a  pleasant  murmur 

In  the  distance  away, 
And  nearer  articulate 

Words  of  the  olden  lay, 


-4- 


NATIVE    WOODS.  229 


"Merrie  Christmas,"   "Merrie  Christmas,' 

Like  the  magical  light, 
Cheering  shady  corners 

With  warm  tints  and  bright. 

In  our  little  domicile 

Plump  by  the  chimney  hung 
A  tiny  pair  of  stockings. 

Over  the  way  there  swung 
A  larger  pair,  whose  ownertf 

With  air  of  mystery 
Rifled  of  rustling  treasures, 

Summoning  all  to  see. 

Down  stairs  tripped  two  maidens, 

Gleefully  wondering  how 
Santa  Claus  came  to  be  straying 

The  upper  regions  through. 
I  had  watched  with  interest 

Folded  packages  ope, 
Scanning  the  play  of  features, 

Eager  with  radiant  hope. 

Some  of  the  older  people 

A  choice  little  surprise 
Had  sprung,  to  spice  the  breakfast 

And  kindle  sober  eyes, 
By  and  by  I  grew  quiet 

With  earnest  thoughts  of  the  day, 
Its  tender  significance, 

The  serio  comic  way 

We  meet  it,  our  hearts  trembling 
Just  on  the  edge  of  tears, 


LEAFLETS   FROM 


While  smilingly  we  balance 
Burdens  of  hopes  and  fears. 

A  strange  step  left  the  threshold, 
Some  one  suddenly  came 

Handing  a  gilded  volume 
To  me,  in  a  friend's  name. 

When  I  should  have  arisen 

To  make  grateful  reply, 
No  words  answered  my  bidding, 

But  ranging  silently 
Rose  picture  upon  picture  — 

Some  from  a  treasured  Book, 
Others  from  unseen  pages 

Concealed  from  careless  look.  ; 

Then,  suddenly,  the  pathos 

Of  Christmas  melted  me, 
I  saw  each  blessed  picture 

In  new  sweet  harmony, 
In  the  background  dimly  grouped 

Myriad  human  forms, 
A  central  lowly  Figure 

Clasped  by  embracing  arms, 

WhQse  wonderful  halo  crowned, 

Whose  tender  glory  lit 
Many  familiar  faces 

Illuminated  yet; 
A  Presence  hovering  softly, 

As  of  old  the  heavenly  dove, 
Filled  the  eloquent  silence 

\\itli  one  sweet  key-word—  Love. 


-4*- 


NAT1VK    WOODS.  231 


THE  LEGEND  OF  THE  LEAVES. 

Should  you  ask  this  tiny  basket 

Of  its  history  ;md  purport', 
Lest  such  large  demand  o'ertask  it, 

Let  me  weave  the  simple  story — 
Relic  of  its  fallen  glory. 

Once  erect  in  form  its  fibres 

Grew  within  a  stately  wood  ; 
Man,  the  mighty  conqueror, 

'Xeath  its  waving  shadow  stood, 
Measured  all  its  breadth  and  grandeur, 

Grasped  its  lofty  giant  arms, 
Sentenced  unto  humble  service 

Its  diverse  and  pristine  charms. 
Thence  the  keen-edged  axe  began 

To  lay  low  the  forest  pride, 
And  the  cunning  artisan 

Did  its  very  heart  divide; 
Blade  of  steel  and  tooth  of  iron 

Cleft  and  shaped  the  quivering  grain, 
Some  to  dignity  and  honor, 

Some  to  baser  use  and  stain. 
Pilgrim" to  this  northern  border, 

Seeking  friends  and  rest  and  home, 
Shattered  fragment  of  a  great  past, 

Living  link  to  years  to  come, 
Lo !  the  spirit  of  the  maples 

Flung  o'er  me  this  leafy  guise, 
Foreign  birth  and  native  clothing 

Recommend  me  in  your  eyes. 


T" 

\    232  L.KAFLET8    FROM 


Sometime  in  the  hush  of  twilight 

List  the  musical  refrain 
Of  my  far-off  happy  kindred 

Throbbing  through  my  every  vein. 


BEAUTY    FOB    ASHES. 
The  beautiful  snow  wreaths  lie 

Fresh  on  the  broken  sod, 
"Where  from  our  sad  home  yesterday 

Our  sorrowful  footsteps  trod, 
As  if  in  the  still  night  unseen 

An  angol  softly  bent, 
And  spread  this  spotless  coverlet 

From  the  weeping  firmament 
O'er  our  darling's  bed. 

Oft  over  his  rosy  Clumber 

I  have  folded  the  drapery 
Of  his  little  couch,  and  murmured 

My  sweetest  lullaby; 
A  hand  more  potent  and  tender, 

A  voice  more  soothing  and  deep 
Hath  won  from  his  mother's  bosom 

And  lulled  to  a  dreamless  sleep 
The  wondering  child. 

Spring  is  at  hand — with  wintry  skies 
Will  vanish  the  snowy  wreath, 

Jn    nourishing  drops  enriching 
The  dark  mold  underneath  ; 

Grass  will  rise  and  blossoming  turf 
Sweeten  the  summer  air— 


NATIVE    WOODS.  233 


Beauty  for  ashes — life  from  death 
Proclaiming'  everywhere 
Unsearchable  power. 

Wondrous  yearly  miracle! 

Comforting  this  belief, 
That  ile  who  fashions  the  flowers 

And  notes  each  falling  leaf, 
By  fondest  human  affections 

Typifies,  here  below, 
The  i<»\<-  of  an  infinite  Parent. 

Yearning  His  children  to  show 
Fully  to  trust  Him. 

Take  this  comfort,  sorrowing  friends, 

For  they  are  bles.-ed  indeed, 
Whose  earliest  steps  and  accents 

Foliow  the  angels'  lead. 
Your  earthly  home  is  in  shadow, 

But  a  new  light  pure  and  fair 
Gleams  from  the  heavenly  window, 

And  one  of  the  cherubs  there 
Is  doubly  your  own. 


"But  not  to  me  returns 
Day  or  the  sweet  approach  of  ev'a  or  morn." 

Twilight  is  soft  ami  mellow, 

Moonlight  is  beautiful, 
Sunlight  is  strength  and  glory, 

But  lovelight  crowneth  all. 

Twilight  subdues  dear  features, 
Moonlight  a  halo  supplies, 


4- 


234  LEAFLETS  FROM 

The  glad,  rejoicing  sunlight 
Illumines  and  glorifies. 

Lovelight  with  swifter  mngic 
Touches  the  plainest  lines, 

And  face  and  form  transfigured 
A  marvellous  picture'shines. 

Lovelight  glows  in  the  darkness. 
Kindling  the  fairer  sky 

Of  a  wider  universe, 
But  O!  so  silently. 

Circles  the  patient  forehead- 
Caresses  the  drooping  eye — 

Envelops  the  weary  .^pirit 
So  sweetly  and  tenderly 

That  utmost  pain  and  weakness 
In  such  presence  we  forget, 

And  lile's  canvas  is  relieved 
Of  its  darkest  silhouette. 

Many  who  sit  in  twilight, 
Moonlight  and  sunlight,  pine 

For  blessed  dawn  of  lovelight 
"With  radiance  divine. 

All  the  "lesser  lights,"  Jessie, 
Fade  and  vani.-h  away, 

Only  lovelight  is  immortal 
For  love  makes  perfect  day. 


U-  **< 

NATIVE    WOODS.  235    ; 


BABY'S    ACKNOWLEDGEMENT  OF   A 

CHRISTMAS  OUTFIT. 
Many  1  hunks   for  your  timely  additions 

To  my  slender  wardrobe  to-day, 
I  donned  a  new  shirt  in  a  hurry 
And  laid  my  old  linen  away. 

Arrayed  in  this  dainty  white  coat 
Color-tipped,  it*  comfort  I'll  prove 

Esteeming  it  like  Joseph's,  the  badge 
Of  Somebody  V  generous  love. 

Wrapped  up  in  the  wrapper  I'll  play 
'Tis  a  gentleman's  dressing  gown 

And  try  to  be  graceful  and  gallant 
A.-;  any  young  man  in  town. 

With  small  feet  encased  soft  and  warm 
I  resign  myself  to  a  rocking— 

Do  you  think  there  is  any  danger 
That  1  shall  be  a  blue-stocking? 

Now  under  this  quaint  coverlet 
Methinks  1  shall  sleep  very  sweet, 

My  dreams  catch  bright  hues  from  the  pieces 
btitchtd  into  the  fabric  so  neat. 

And  the  dear  little  garments  prepared 

For  your  own  wee  darling  to  wear, 
Who's  been  walking  in  white  these  twelve 
years — 

handle  with  delicate  care. 


Here's  my  hand— may  you  always  behappy! 
Each  Christmas  increasing'your  store 


236  LEAFLETS   FROM 


Of  treasures,  enduring  nnd  precious, 
Until  you  shall  need  nothing1  more. 
Gratefully,        Baby  blue-eyes 


CHASTENED, 

Even  as  a  child,  whose  faithful  parent  takes 
With  a  reluctant  hand,  the  needed  rod, 
Suffering:  in   every  stroke,   till  haply   breaks 
The  stout  rebellion,  all  drowned  in  tears, 
Lifts  its  meek  lip  subdued,  to  meet  the  kiss 
Of  forgiveness,  and  hastes  by  new  obedience 
To  light  love's  grieved  face  dim  through   its 

waywardness ; 

So  I,  having  felt  the  smart  of  a  just 
Father's  rod  with  sad  severity 
Drowned    in  repentant   tears   falter,    "What 

wilt  thou," 

Faintly  discerning  the  shining  countenance 
Of  unchanging  love. 

"WE  LIVE   IN   DEEDS  NOT  YEARS." 
At  the  hour  of  Sabbath  service, 

Where  reverent  voices  blended, 
From  an  inner  sanctuary 

A  winged  soul  ascended. 
The  clouds  bent  low  and  drearily, 

Obscured  the  Heaven  of  blue, 
Our  tears  and  nature's  so  mingled, 

No  sunshine  could  break  through. 
But  the  conscious  shining  Presence — 

Her  chosen  royal  Friend— 


NATIVE    WOODS.  237 


Attended  the  supreme  moment 

When  human  offices  end. 
While  we  \vent  down  to  the  border 

Of  the  unknown  valley,  we  knew 
That  Death's  mighty  Conqueror 

Crowned  her  conqueror  too. 

She  had  written  a  blessed  record 

In  duties  cheerfully  done, 
In  brave  and  patient  endurance 

Of  crosses  of  her  own, 
In  kind  and  helpful  ministry 

To  others'  humble  need — 
She  left  the  beautiful  history 

Open  for  us  to  read. 

Nothing  to  do,  but  committing 

Herself  to  arms  of  love, 
Quitting   possessions  below, 

Entering  treasures  above; 
Who  knows  but  there  came  to  meet  her, 

Among  the  glorified, 
Her  own  precious  cherub  trio — 

We  know  site  is  satisfied. 


ETCHINGS  ON  WOOD. 

Written  on   the    occasion    of  a  wooden  wedding. 

Friends,  did  you  ever  examine 
The  wondrous  structure  of  wood, 

Or  gravely  seek  to  determine 
It  secrets  of  growth  and  good, 

Locate  its  cells  and  its  fibres, 
Or  number  from  pith  to  bark 


4 


238  LEAFLETS   FROM 


The  perfect  concentric  circles, 
Of  years,  the  measure  and  mark? 

While  rocked  in  the  maple's  arms, 
Or  clasped  to  the  oaken  heart, 

Did  no  hint  of  common  being 
Through  their  living  tissues  start? 

How  long  the  sapling  was  growing-- 
How slowly  matured  the  plan 

Of  root,  shaft,  branches,  leaves,  fruitage 
Behold  in  a  figure — num. 

To  him  bowed  strength  and  beauty, 

The  artisan's  cunning  skill 
Invoked  shapes  of  rest  and  shelter 

From  the  wood's  treasures  at  will, 
Bade  broad  trunk  spread  an  enclosure, 

Supple  boughs  furnish  a.  thatch, 
Straightway  the  saw  and  the  hammer 

Divided,  fitted  and  matched. 

From  evergreen  northern  forests 

The  odorous  timbers  come, 
Uniting  with  native  monarchs 

To  rear  the  Temple  of  Home; 
The  chairs,  the  couch  and  the  table, 

Utensils  dainty  and  rude, 
Incomplete  at  choicest  and  best, 

Without  the  woman  was  wooed. 

And  so  this  Eden  was  founded 
In  strength,  uprightness  and  youth, 

With  graceful  supporting  pillars 
Of  confidence,  love  and  truth  ; 


*••-*•  —  -4 

NATIVE    WOODS.  239 


Five  solid  consecutive  rings 

Of  growth  the  years  have  bestowed, 
Inlaying  with  marvelous  skill 

Jn  two  fairy  patterns  rosewood. 

Beyond  slight  surface  abrasion 

No  deep  disfiguring  scar 
Suggests  sorrowful  memories, 

This  blessed  occasion  to  mar; 
Sweet  by  contrast  becomes  sweeter. 

And  strength  is  matched  to  need, 
E'en  trial  hath  precious  uses 

Well  worthy  of  loving  heed. 

Gather  then  all  choice  devices 

Of  color,  and  form,  and  grace, 
Be  dark  and  light  finely  blended, 

Give  use  and  ornament  place, 
Frame  pictures  and  fit  the  mantel, 

Hang  bracket,  and  roll,  and  scroll, 
And  write  on  the  lintel  "Welcome"— 

Your  he.iltli  in  a  wooden  bowl. 

With  life's  delicious  elixir 

Fill  high  each  varied  cup, 
We  pledge  in  flow  of  living  sap 

From  root  to  foliage  up; 
Yonder  mahogany  form 

Embodies  music's  soul, 
Here  from  the  library's  niches 

Genius  and  wisdom  unfold. 

From  this  bower  of  enchantment 
Interpret  the  murmurous  sound 


-f- 


240  LEAFLETS   FROM 


Which  floats  on  the  passing  zephyr, 
"We  grow  and  therefore  are  crowned ;' 

Few  may  aspire  to  be  giants, 
Not  one  can  compass  the  sky, 

All  can  strike  rleep  and  reach  upward 
And  live  out  a  purpose  high. 

The  elm  caresses  the  maple. 

The  nut-trees  stand  close  and  still, 
The  pines  mingle  whispering  needles 

With  eacli  other  on  the  hill, 
While  from  the  golden  Occident 

Gigantic  old  heroes  spoke 
A  salute  to  Orient  cedars, 

Which  echoes  of  centuries  woke. 

Then  through  the  grand  convocation, 

Leading  spirits  of  the  wood 
Chose  Lignum  Vitae  their  emblem, 

And  all  pronounced  it  good. 


A  BROKEN   CHORD. 

The  tuneful  voice  is  hushed, 
Which  from  my  early  childhood  I  have  heard 
Leading  the  hymn  of  praise.    The  quick,  sen- 
sitive 

Ear,  trained  to  nice  harmony,  nevermore 
Jarsatearth's  discordant  sounds.    The  urgent 
Summons  given  with  startling  distinctness, 
"Come  up  higher" — he  ascended  to  his  place 
In  the  redeemed  choir.    Oh!  how  sweetly 
Breaks  the  divine  melody  upon  his 


NATIVE    WOODS.  241 


Attent  oar.     With  what  delight  his  practised 
Voice  mounts  the  new  heavenly  scale. 

To-day, 

Young  voices  raise  the  tender  songs  he  taught, 
My  eyeso'erflow — "Upon  the  hillsof  Heaven" 
They  softly  sing— the  simple  words  thrill  like 
A  Prophecy.    No  tears  for  him;  ransomed 
And    free   he  walks  in  white  who  one  brief 

week 

Ago  wrought,  as  we,  'mid  manifold 
Temptations.     Will  our  work  shine  as  gold 
When  the  lire  trieth?    Human  and  frail   we 

take 

Up  daily  the  burden  of  life  and  follow 
Afar  the  Master's  blessed  steps. 


MY  PRINCESS. 

She  cometh  as  the  dawn— From  Orient  skies 
Beams  the  warm  splendor  of  her  earnest  eyes, 
With  lambent  touch  she  swiftly  scatters  night, 
And  makes  the  scene  shine,  luminous  as  light, 
Serene,  unconscious, 'mid  the  shadows  glides, 
While  every  shape  of  darkness  quickly  hides. 
Bright  faces  turn  to  catch  the  generous  glow, 
From  sad  eyes  kindling  Auroras  flow. 
Humble  as  any  daisy  of  the  sod, 
Whose  disc  reflects  the  glory  of  its  God, 
She  chooses  rugged  walks,  and  lowly  ways, 
Blushing  at  blessing,  renders  Him  the  praise. 
Pier  speech  runs  silverno'er  its  crystal  bed, 
In  depths  of  golden  silence  oft  to  spread. 
Her  step  is  firm,  as  one  who  knows  not  fear. 


«. 

J 

242  LEAFLETS   FROM 


Her  face  is  glad,  as  one  who  wears  no  care. 
Her  manner,  winsome  as  a  playful  child, 
Her  wisdom  rare,  her  purpose  undefiled, 
Her  ministry,  manifest  in  deeds  of  love, 
Ambitious,  chief  of  servants  still  to  prove; 
Nor  doth  she  slight  the  homely  household 

cheer, 

Velvet  and  purple,  she  doth  daily  wear 
With     modest    courtliness.     Her    garments 

smell 
Of  fragrant  myrrh.     Her  quiet   movements 

tell 

Of  swift  aerial  flights,  and  skill 
In  Love's  divinest  magic.     Her  looks  thrill 
Magnetic  sympathies,   electrical. 

She  soothes  the  weary    watch,   the  feverish 
strain, 

And  drops  the  balm  of  comfort  upon  pain. 
She  guides  the  shrinking  spirit  beyond  Earth 
To  the  Eternal  strength,  the  heavenly  birth. — 
My  Princess,  is  of  ancient  royal  line — 
The  daughter  of  the  King  by  every  sign. 


CONCERNING  ONE  ASLEEP. 

Not  hers  tne  light  sleep 
Of  the  morn,  troubled  by  early  sounds 

And  waking  memories,  nor  yet  the  mid-day 

Lethargy  compelled  by  weariness; 

Hers  the  cairn  slumbrous  rest  when  day  is 

done. 

Busily  she  set  her  house  in  order, 
Lit  up  the  shaded  corners,  hung  her  fairest 


NATIVE    WOODS. 


Pictures  on  the  sombre  walls,  spread  the  floors 
With  softest  velvet  of  humble  ministries, 
With  s weet  content  filled  all  the  hours  and 

slept. 

Here  is  n  life  rounded  unto  completeness. 
Four  score  years  of  brisk  activity, 
No  painful  helplessness,  no  folded  hands, 
No  weary  waiting  for  the  glad  release; 
A  life  of  prayer,  a  life  of  faith,  a  life 
Of  hope — complete  in  Jesus. 

"Them  also  which  sleep  in  Jesus 
Will  God  bring  with  Him."    Take  comfort 

here. 


HEARTSEASE. 

Two  velvet  pansies 

And  two  wee  tansies- 
Each  scented  tricolor  laid 

On  palm  of  green  fringe?, 

Caught  between  the  hinges 
Of  flower  border  and  garden  bed. 

Two  eager  feet  sought. 
Two  busy  hands  brought 

Such  simple  trophies  to  me; 
The  fair  sensitive  face, 
With  fine  thought  upraised, 

I  looked  through  my  tears  to  see. 

Wearily  sitting, 
'Mid  sunbeams  flitting 
Through  golden  October  air, 


244  LEAFLETS   FROM 


I  mused  of  sore  losses 
And  shrunk  from  life's  crosses, 
Nor  found  any  comforter. 

In  and  out  tripping, 

Like  a  bee  sipping 
Honey  from  common  clover, 

Full  of  innocent  joy, 

Glad  with  pleasant  employ. 
My  sunny-haired,  clear-eyed  lover 

Made  errand  to  find 

Some  solace,  to  hind 
Over  the  hidden  aching, 

Confessing  sub  ro.s-a, 

This  brave,  modest  posy 
Held  mysteries  of  love-making. 

A  quick,  conscious  flush 

Suffused,  like  a  blush 
From  my  heart,  my  changing  cheek 

The  skies  glowing  brighter, 

My  heaviness  lighter. 
The  secret  I  venture  to  speak. 

"Ye  varied  flowers 

Of  midsummer  hours, 
g 

O'er  whom  connoisseurs  hover, 

Your  rare  beauty  loving, 

Your  odors  approving, 
Philosophy  fails  to  discover 

What  exquisite  grace 
I  find  in  the  face 
Of  this  flower  of  lowly  mein, 


XATIVE    WOODS.  245 

That  with  studious  care, 
I'roud  and  happy,  I  wear 
My  tricolored  velvet  and  green." 

The  herb  and  the  flower, 

In  their  little  hour, 
Conspired  this  truth  to  prove, 

That  for  manifold  ills 

Healing  balsam  distills 
Into  one  panacea,  love, 

By  a  process  -slow, 

In  which  small  drops  flow 
Throuerh  life's  alembic  pure, 

Ethereal  essence, 

Whose  spirituous  presence 
Diffuses  a  radical  cure. 


SONG  OF  THE  LILIES. 

Among  their  clustering  leaves  concealed  from 

sight, 

The  lilies  of  the  valley,  seek  the  light, 
Beauty  and  fragrance  modestly  possess 
Adorning  other  grace  with  lowliness; 
Their  tiny  bells  are  mute  to  common  ear — 
Instinct  with  melody  to  those  who  hear, 
For  lightly  swaying  in  tne^May  air 
A  psalm  of  life  they  reverently  declare— 
"Whoso  is  humble  shall  exalted  he." 
The  crown  of  graces  is  humility. 


24G  LEAFLETS  FROM 


TO-MORROW. 
Has  any  one  seen  To-morrow  ? 
I  hear  that  she  passes  this  way, 

A  vision  of  radiant  beauty, 
A  veiled  and  gracious  queen 

Whom  the  world  has  never  seen, 
She  will  surely  eclipse  To-day. 

Has  any  one  seen  To-morrow  ? 
Ever  since  the  early  dawning 

I've  followed  afar  her  retinue; 
So  swift  hath  her  passage  been 

I  cannot  o'ertake  her  train, 
I  fe-ir  I  shall  miss  the  crowning. 

Has  any  one  seen  To-morrow? 
Inhabits  she  earth  or  air? 

Her  coming  is  welcome  as  summer, 
Her  fingers  clasp  opening  flowers, 

Her  gifts  are  choice  golden  hours. 
Oh!  where  is  To-morrow  O!  where? 

To-day  proves  stern  and  exacting, 
To-day  waxes  fickle  and  vain, 

Her  promises  are  all  uncertain, 
She  make?  me  sorry  and  sad 

Instead  of  happy  and  glad, 
I  never  can  trust  her  again. 

They  bade  me  wait  till  To-morrow, 
Considerate,  generous,  mild, 

To  recompense  numerous  losses, 
To  transform  every  sorrow — 

I've  been  chasing  To-morrow 
With  courage,  since  I  was  a  child. 


NATIVE    WOODS. 


\Va*  yesterday   frowning,  cloudy? 
Hope  undismayed  would  borrow 

A  glimpse  of  superlative  bright ne<>  ; 
Whate'er  wrong  needed  righting, 

Whene'er  dark  needed  lighting, 
I  cheerfully  said  To- morrow. 

But  I  am  weary  with  searching 
This  crooked  bewildering  way, 

Oh  !  cruel  invisible  princess 
Where  tarry  you,  wasting  all 

My  moments  heyond  recall? 
I  cannot  out-travel  To-day. 

If  I  sleep  in   faith  that  To-morrow 
\\  ill  awake  me  with  greetings  gay, 

'Tis  only  a  dream — a  delusion, 
A  phantom—eluding  pursuit, 

An  oracle— mocking,  mute; 
To-morrow's  another  To-day. 

Oh  !  much  abused  precious  To-day  ! 
Is  it  true  the  secret  you  hold 

Of  To-morrow's  richest  possessions  ? 
Do  her  dear  coveted  things 

Arise  from  your  fostering  wings, 
Like  new  life  from  out  Earth's  dark  mold? 

Then  cease  useless  quest  for  To-morrow, 
Continue  steadfast  in  the  way, 

A  halo  encircles  time  present, 
The  eager  grasp  firmly  close 

On  real  substance;  Repose 
Introduces  To-morrow  to-day. 


248  LKAFLKTS    FROM 


|K>c)8,  and  will  write  out  in  many  <y>lnr<«]  wonlx  the  romano  tlm 


In  eastern  city,  once,  there  dwelt  a  man 
Of  modest  parts  and  lowly  modeled  ways, 

With    cunning    hand    his    daily    task    he 

wrought, 
And  peaceful  evenings  recompensed  his  days; 

Over  a  harp  of  curious  workmanship 
He  sometimes  bent,  and  with  abstracted  air 

Drew  strange  sweet  sounds,  then  paused 

and  pondered 
Whether  the  spirit  of  the  harp  were  there. 

One  journeyed  from  afar— a  pilgrim  slept 
A  night  upon  his  hospitable  couch, 

Her  heart  was  weary,  but  the  idle  harp 
Responded  quickly  to  her  lightest  touch  ; 

"There's  something  in  the  shape  of  harps" 

she  said, 

As  with  bold  stroke  she  swept  the   tuneful 
strings, 

Invoked  the  invisible  spirit,  Hark  ! 
What  burst  of  melody  the  movement  brings. 

Upon  his  table  lay  a  useless  stone — 
A  fragment  from  the  lonely  ocean  beach, 

"What  have  we  here?"  she  said,  with  ea- 
ger hand 
Gathering  the  welcome  relic  within  reach  ; 

A  shining  hammer  from  her  belt  she  drew, 
And  smote  thestoneaswift  and  vigorous  blow, 


-4" 

NATIVE    WOODS.  249 


The  obdurate  oval  yielded,  open  flew — 
Ensphered  a  form  of  crystal  pure  as  snow. 

An  arbor  in  the  garden  needed  shade, 
A  vine  he  planted,  but  some  careless  foot 

Had  trodden  on  it ;  walking  there  she  spied 
Its  delicate  tendrils  climbing  from  the  root, 

Jts  rare  cleft  leaf  upturned,  distinct,  and 

fine, 
Joyful  exclaimed  "this  is  a  passion-vine, 

For  generous  culture  it  will  well  repay, 
In  royal  purple  clothe  itself  one  day." 

The  dweller  and  the  pilgrim  turned  to  meet 
A  soulful  look  from  one  another's  eyes — 

.Swift   revelations    charged    the    moments 

fleet, 
Flew  vitalized  through  conscious  sympathies; 

"Whence    came    you,    whither    going?" 

thrilled  his  voice, 
She  answered,  "I  return  to  Paradise," 

"Abide  with  me  and  share  my  best  estate," 
"Crown  Love,"  she  whispered,  "only  love  is 
great." 


250  LEAFLETS    FROM 


ALBUM  NOTES. 


A  friend  is  one  whose  subtle  claim 

Consists  in  something  more  than  name  ; 

Some  fine  congenial  quality,  — 

Or  some  rare  opposite  may  be 

The  ligament,  whose  slight  connection 

Draws  the  cable  of  affection  ; 

Truth,  purity,  and  sterling  sense 

Twist  three-fold  cord  of  confidence, 

(Without  which  I  freely  advance 

Opinion,  that  no  genuine  chance 

Exists  for  Friendship.)    There  is  room 

For  all  the  graces  here  to  bloom, 

For  choice  refined  courtesies  — 

All  delicate  affinities— 

And  Friendship's  soul  may  be  enshrined 

In  Beauty's  self  —  a  brilliant  mind, 

Or  Luminous  through  plainer  guise 

The  living  spirit  glorifies. 

My  fair  ideal  you  divine  — 

Am  I  your  friend?    Will  you  be  mine? 

Here  in  this  north  countrie 
Has  grown  a  shapely  tree, 

Where  summer  birds  and  zephyrs 
Discourse  sweet  melody, 


4- 


XATIVK    WOODS.  ZoJ 

But  when  shadows  lengthen 

There  comes  a  hint  of  frost, 
Birds  speed  swiftly  away, 

Winds  veer  aril  roughly  toss. 
Her  crown  of  radiant  leaves 

The  tree  casts  mournfully, 
And  braces  her  heart  to  bear 

Desertion  patiently. 

Let  Friendship  be  the  tree, 

Rooted  secure  and  fast, 
With  never  a  thought  of  flight 

Xor  fear  o!' fickle  blast  ; 
What  though  the  leafy  crown 

Be  laid  aside  like  a  dress  ! 
Because  in  homely  guise 

Love  we  our  friends  the  less? 
Xnver  forsaken  and  shorn 

While  vigorous  life  abides, 
In  warm  weather-proof  chambers 

Bright  budding  promise  bides. 

"Pleasant  words  are  as  the  honey-comb." 
Gather  honey,  Lizzie, 
The  sweets  of  the  diligent  bee 
Are  culled  by  the  hour 
From  many  a  flower 
Kre  garnered  for  you  and  me. 

Gather  honey,  Lizzie, 

A  varied  and  bountiful  store, 

For  poor  is  the  field 

That  never  will  yield 

Enough  for  yourself  and  more. 

— — — ^ 


2^2  LKAKLKT*    FROM 


Here  on  these  pages  pure,  full  many  hands 

Tokens  of  kindly  memory  shall  trace, 
Here  shall  he  woven  mystic  friendship  bands, 
Whose  circles  wide  meet  in  this  hallowed 

place. 
Many  the  wishes  love  shall  here  indite, 

Many  the  prayers  to  tuneful   measure  set, 
'Mid  scenes  of  varying  shade  and  changeful 

light 

Whose    bright  unfolding   thou  wilt   ne'er 
forget. 

To  the  dear  altar  of  domestic  bliss 

Where  peace  and  love  and  harmony  preside, 
To  the  sweet  boon  of  life-long  happiness 

With  a  firm  trust  in  Heaven  whate'er  be- 

tide, 
To  all  the  joys  earth's  happiest  children  share 

Blooming  immortal    on    thy  heart's  pure 

shrine, 
Cherished  by  virtues,   love  and  tender  care, 

I  lain  would  dedicate  this  book  of  thine. 

Not  only  one  but  all  these  precious  things, 

Seldom  to  mortals  given,  1  ask  for  thee; 
'Tis  no  vain  wish  —  its  kindly  import   brings 

A  gush  of  tender  feeling  to  my  eye, 
When  future  years   their  shadows   o'er  thee 
cast, 

Whate'er  thy  lot,  whate'er  thy  future  be, 
Amid  life's  changes  shall  these  pages  last, 

Friendship's  sweet  offering,  boon  of  mem- 
ory. 


•*• 


NATIVE    WOODS.  253 


These  tinted  leaves  are  my  garden, 
Where  shady  or  sunny  weather, 
Mignonette,  pansies  and  roses 
Happily  blossom  together. 
.Scatter  then  some  favorite  seed, 
Each  friend,  and  the  beautiful  thing 
Will  take  its  own  form  and  color, 
In  memory's  perennial  spring. 


My  niche  pass  not  by 
With  an  averted  eye. 


Friend  of  the  leafy  summer — 

Friend  of  the  winter  chill — 
No  transient  new  comer 

Your  chosen  place  can  fill; 
Fly  not  with  birds  of  passage, 

No  changeful  season  prove, 
Full-orbed,  serene,  abiding, 

Illume  the  sphere  of  Love. 


When  fully  armed  and  equipped 
At  Home's  threshold  you  stand, 
Consider  carefully  whether 
Your  handkerchief's  at  hand  ; 
It  increases  the  self-respect, 
Improves  the  general  tone, 
To  hold  in  quiet  possession 
A  handkerchief  of  your  own. 


Remember  the  sweets  of  our  intercourse. 
Was  anything  insipid,  »our  or  bitter,  time  is 
the  great  rectifier. 


254  LEAFLETS   FROM 

Youth's  dew  is  on  thy  brow,  Lottie, 

Youth's  fire  is  in  thine  eye, 
And  Hope  within  thy  henrt,  Lottie, 

Is  throbbing1  quick  and  high  ; 
The  rose  upon  thy  cheek,  Lottie, 

Is  not  more  fair  and  bright 
Than  the  future  to  thy  trusting  soul 

Circled  with  golden  light. 

The  dream  is  very  sweet,  Lottie, 

Its  waking  oft  times  blest, 
And  paths  which  lie  in  shadow 

Lead  often  unto  rest; 
The  thorns  ne'er  deeply  wound,  Lottie, 

Though  they  spring  forever  nigh, 
If  we  be  securely  clad,  Lottie, 

In  Faith's  holy  panoply. 

Bright  hours  will  come  to  thee,  Lottie, 

And  dark  may  mingled  be, 
But  all  alike  if  blest,  Lottie, 

Will  thy  spirit  purify. 
'Tis  an  earnest  wish  of  mine,  Lottie, 

Thine  a  meek  and  quiet  heart, 
Life  a  calm  and  peaceful  journey, 

And  thy  choice  "the  better  part." 


Beautiful,  spotless  page,  thy  pure  expanse 
No  hand  hath  marred,  no  wish  unmeant  or 
vain 

Hath  left  an  impress  for  the  nicest  glance ; 
Thus  may  each  leaf  forever  more  remain, 

Not  yet  unwritten,  but  in  beauty  trac'd 


NATIVE    WOODS. 


Friendship  and  love  their  sacred  offerings 

yield, 

Bright  with  a  glory  time  can  ne'er  efface, 
Of  sweet  forget-me-nots  a  blooming  field. 

Ik-  thy  fair  volume  ever  dedicate 

To  truth  and  memory  in  flowing  verse, 
'Mid  future  scenes  whose  shadows  o'er  thee 

cast, 

Thy   wealth  of  treasured  lore,  sometimes 
rehearse, 

That  she  who  glances  o'er  these  cherished 

names 
In  the  heart's  tablet  writ,   may  hasten   to 

commune 
With  the  loved  past,  and  thee,  andthou  shalt 

be 
Unto  her  heart  a  sweet  remembered  tune. 


The  pearls  of  contentment  are  ornaments 
fitting  and  beautiful  on  the  brow  of  those 
who  claim  this  legacy,  "My  peace  I  leave 
with  you." 


Wishes  born  of  breath 

Are  as  transient  and  fleet; 
How  shall  be  made  immortal 

All  that  in  life  is  sweet? 
Shall  the  beautiful  visions 

We  joyfully  entertain, 
Die  with  this  brief  existence, 

Never  to  live  again? 

Ours  a  glorious  era, 
Glorious  'tis  to  be, 


2f)G  LEAFLETS  FROM 

And  the  stamp  of  noble  d^ed.s 
Shall  im press  futurity; 

All  that  is  grand  in  action, 
All  that's  sublime  in  thought 

Is  in  our  deathless  being 
Mysteriously  wrought. 

Dear  one,  herein  is  life 

Worthy  our  noblest  aims, 
Say  on  the  shining  list 

We  enter  our  humble  names, 
In  this  imperfect  sphere 

Seeking  no  lasting  home, 
Working  out  here  the  problem 

Of  blessed  life  to  come. 


Call  Friendship's  roll 
For  memory's  sake, 
Adown  its  aisles 
The  echoes  wake, 
That  faces  dear 
And  voices  clear 
In  coming  time 
May  answer,  "Here." 


"And  a  white  stone  with  a  new  name  be 
thy  passport  when  Time  shall  end." 
Many  wishes  will  be  woven 

On  these  pages  pure  and  fair, 
Summer-tried  and  Winter-proven 

Names  and  memories  they  will  wear ; 
Some  enshrined  with  love  most  sacred, 

Some  which  claim  a  passing  thought, 


NATIVE    WOODS.  2o7 


'Mid  them  all  though  e'er  so  kindly 

Mine  shall  never  be  forgot, 
For  I  come  with  one  so  holy, 

That  its  beautiful  bequest 
Shall  enrich  the  heart  that  owneth, 

Make  with  its  possession  blest, 
Words  are  but  its  weaker  symbols, 

But  a  wealth  of  meaning  lies 
In  its  brief  and  simple  sentence, 

Glory-bright  to  spirit  eyes. 
Change  is  written  on  the  fairest 

Of  Diir  blessings  here  below, 
Oft  the  sweetest  and  the  dearest 

Wliile  we  gaze  upon  them,  go  ; 
But  this  wish  of  mine  would  lead  thee 

To  a  world  of  lasting  bliss, 
And  with  such  a  blessed  halo 

Gild  thy  pathway  on  through  this. 
Love,  thy  life  lamp,  may  desert  thee, 

Fading  into  darksome  night, 
But  this  wish  of  mine  would  lead  thee 

Unto  Heaven's  unfailing  light. 
Cheer  thee,  then,  through  waste  or  rose-path, 

Nobly  thou  perform  thy  part, 
And  the  new  name  shall  be  written 

Radiantly  on  thy  heart. 


Circles  are  endless.  Methinks  Friendship 
hath  like  form,  single  or  collective,  less  or 
greater,  wh'els  within  wheels,  wheels  beside 
wheels,  revolving  smoothly,  continually, 
eternal  ty. 


-4* 

258  LEAFLETS   FROM 


Blind-fold  me  and  bring  me  roses — 
Can  I  tell  the  color  by  touch  of  the  petals? 
Nay,  but  the  white  yields  most  delicate  fra- 
grance, 
Carrie,  be  a  white  rose. 


Illuminate  this  autograph  from  memory 


To  be  a  sunbeam  would  not  be 

The  height  of  human  destiny, 

To  be  a  star  shining  afar 

\Vould  not  be  immortality  ; 

But  she  who  scatters  wide  and  bright 

The  glory  of  the  solar  light 

From  a  redeemed  illumined  soul, 

Shall  wear  a  seraph's  aureole. 


Let  music  ope 

Her  mellow  mysteries, 

To  quicken  Hope, 

Till  life's  dull  practice  shapes 

To  chastened  measure, 

Then  shall  your  heart  keep  time 

To  melody  sublime. 

From  a  cloud  of  fleecy  thought  mist 

Rises  a  vision  to  me, 
I  will  try  to  sketch  it  plainly, 

Dear  Lucy,  that  yon  may  see; 
'Tis  a  young  girl  on  the  threshold 

Of  life's  sober  labor-day, 
With  one  smiling  glance  cast  backward, 

One  wistful,  up  and  away. 


-t 

NATIVE    WOODS.  259 


Bright  hopes  in  the  distance  beckon, 

New  duties  .sternly  await, 
Pleasures,  a  treacherous  legion, 

Encompass  a  wicket  gate; 
Above  a  strong  One  is  bending 

With  radiant  love-lit  eyes, 
Offering  sweetly  to  guide  her 

In  safety  to  Paradise. 

Her  face  grows  troubled  and  tender, 

Her  eyes  wear  far-away  look, 
She  balances  pearl  and  bauble 

On  a  slender  human  hook, 
But  suddenly  grave  resolve 

Is  the  joyful  conqueror, 
And  the  waiting  glorious  King 

Has  won  a  new  messenger. 


A  sunny  temper  and  a  gentle  heart 
In  all  life's  scenes  bear  a  delightful  part, 
No  gifts  nor  graces  can  their  place  supply, 
All  character  they  crown  and  beautify  ; 
Accept  my  friend,  this  tribute  to  your  praise, 
Your  quiet  spirit  maketh  glad  your  days. 


Let  loving  thoughts  like  fragrant  flowers 

Spring  from  each  opening  page 

To  brighten  and  bless  the  coming  hours, 

And  memory's  treasures  engage  ; 

For  thoughts  like  seeds  have  magical   wings 

Out  of  which  blossom  wonderful  things. 


•f- 


1260  LEAFLETS    FROM 

In  a  fair  cottage  nestled  by  the  sea 
A  maiden  I  met  and  she  pleaseth  me; 

They  love  her  who  playfully  call  "Jenny 

Wren," 
Her  silver  gray  plumage  suits  cognomen, 

But  merry  and  winsome,  I  beg  you  to  mark 
I  dub  her  more  truly  my  song-ful  lark. 

Little  girls  among  the  flowers 

Gaily   live  and   blossom, 
All  unmindful  of  the  hopes 

Hidden  in  each  bosom  ; 
Rivaling  the  honey  cups 

In  beauty  and  sweetness, 
Needing  plenteous  sunshine 

To  produce  completeness. 

Some  hearts-ease  meek  and  lowly, 

Others  snowy  lilies  rear, 
Some  roses  crimson-hearted, 

Daises  the  waysides  cheer,  ' 
All  designed  to  grace  and  brighten 

Home,  and  life's  severe  ascent ; 
Little  woman,  here's  your  cipher, 

Time  shall  unfold  what  is  meant. 


As  vines  in  gardens,  through  a  genial  season 
Beach  living  tendrils  out  to  clasp  each  neigh- 
bor, 

So  human  love  in  happiest  conditions 
Forms  clinging  rings  crowning  vigorous  la- 
bor, 

So  climbing  by  the  upright,  graceful  run 
To  hang  their  generous  clusters  in  the  sun. 


NATIVE    WOODS.  261 


We  cannot  measure  everything  by  time, 
A  year's  length  is  determined  by  events, 

One  golden  noon  hour  may  contain  the  prime 
Of  twenty-four  or  many,  I  say,  hence 

Our  friendship  may  be  young,  but  it  may  hold 
In  embryo  ripe  fruit  of  love  untold. 


Who  writes  upon  these  spotless  pages,  writes 

A  friend's  fair  signature,  the  heart  indites 

Some  tender  thought  or  wish  to  cheer  and 

bless, 

By  this  same  token  stands  my  friend  con- 
fessed. 

The  flowers  of  friendship  are  of  various  hue, 
The  fragrance  of  the  flowers  distinct  is  too, 

I  would  forget-me-nots  might  have  their  place 
And  stately  lilies  rise  in  regal  grace. 

Wild  roses  on  the  waysides  may  abound  — 
Choice  hybrids  in  the  garden  plats  are  found, 

Vines  seek  the  trellis,  tufts  adorn  the  sod, 
Some  creep,  some  climb,  familiarly  some 
nod. 

Gather  me  then  a  happy  favorite, 
And  all  in  emerald  leaflets  shall  be  set, 

A  bower  of  verdure,  a  bright  pyramid, 
Within  which  everlasting  blooms  are  hid. 


We  met  from  brilliant  Southern  skies, 
From  Western  thrift  and  enterprise, 
In  dear  New  England's  classic  homes 
'Mid  Art's  and  Nature's  stately  domes, 


4-  H- 

262  LEAFLETS   FROM 


The  Summer  fervor  waxed  and  glowed  — 
The  metal  yielded,  flashed  and  flowed — 
Fusion  sublime!  out  of  which  rolled 
Bands  true  as  steel,  and  bright  as  gold. 


TO  MY    DARLINGS  ALL. 
Herein  is  a  marvellous  thing — 
No  matter  how  homely  the  nest, 
Out  of  rough  straws  or  sticks  fashioned, 
Cushioned  with  down  from  her  breast, 
Bright  plumage,  sweet  song  or  light  wing- 
Mother-bird  loves  all  the  best. 


In  this  consecrated  place 
One  small  signature  I  trace, 
First  in  Love's  immortal  line- 
Human  link  to  Love  Divine, 
Changeless,  tender,  lavish,  free  — 
Crowning  thee  invisibly ; 
After  mine,  sweet  Friendship  bring 
Every  precious  offering. 

Hence  this  spotless  page  will  wear 
My  impression,  daughter  dear — 
Luminous  with  love  the  text, 
Copious  notes  from  life  annexed  ; 
By  this  token  surely  know 
Only  blessing  I  bestow, 
Happy  if  my  name  should  be 
A  perpetual  legacy. 


XATIVE    WOODS.  263 


I  X    M  E  M  O  R I  A  M  , 


r  1 AVBHTER  OF  N.  H    AND  M.  J.  UOl'LD.      DIED  KFlllUAIIV  'i'-',, 

1879,  AfJF.l)  15  YEABS  AND  4  MONTHS.] 


PRELUDE. 

Among  the  birds  of  Summer 
While  Summer  days  were  long, 

Came  one  of  radiant  wing 
Singing  my  heart  this  song: 

SONG    OF   INQUIRY. 

Oh  !   unquiet  spirit 

Wherefore  repining? 
Look  up  and  consider 

Whence  this  clear  shining, 
These  tremulous  shadows, 

This  soft  brooding  mist, 
This  world  of  enchantment, 

Cloud-shielded,  sun-kissed. 

Where  wert  thou  that  first  morn 

When  Chaos  fleeing, 
Order  and  Beauty  sprung 

Into  new  being? 
AVhen  like  a  starry  gem 

Out  of  boundless  space 
This  finished  planet 

Rolled  to  its  place? 


•i- 


264  LEAFLETS   FROM 


Whose  steady  hand  of  power 

Uplifted  and  lit 
This  brilliant  firmament? 

By  whom  were  bounds  set 
To  the  upper  waters 

And  Ocean's  gate  shut  ? 
Who  wrapped  stately  forests 

In  one  little  nut? 

What  is  the  utmost  stretch 

Of  thy  finite  mind? 
How  far  off  is  yon  sky? 

What  color  or  kind 
Is  the  wing  of  thy  thought? 

Whose  resonant  breath 
Through  myriad  murm'ring  pipes 

Melody  waketh? 

Where  was  this  vast  green  dyed 

Such  exquisite  shade  ? 
Of  what  are  these  leaflets 

Of  what  roses  made? 
Whose  wondrous  skill  fashioned 

Each  delicate  flower, 
Of  choice  tint  and  odor 

Gave  its  own  dower  ? 

Where  is  the  Summer's  life 

When  'neath  many  fold 
Of  snowy  coverlet 

Sleeps  the  silent  mold? 
These  branches  stripped  and  ]bare, 

Forms  of  beauty  fled, 


NATIVE    WOODS.  265 


Can  breath  or  spirit  be 
In  aught  cold  and  dead  ? 

Didst  ever  one  small  seed 
On  Earth's  bosom  fling 

And  patiently  await 
Timely  unfolding? 

Who  packed  garments  of  praise 
In  this  compass  small, 

Keeping  distinct— perfect- 
Fit  clothing  for  all? 

What  assurance  hast  thou 

That  another  day 
Shall  from  the  glowing  East 

Scatter  night  away  ? 
Canst  thou  serenely  sleep 

Wrapped  in  mystery 
Trusting  doubtful  issues 

One  wiser  than  we? 
•*  *  *  * 

A  rustle  in  the  tree  top — 

Quivering  in  the  air, 
As  of  lifted  wing— twilight 

And  silence  settled  there. 
My  melodious  singer 

Sought  I  vainly  and  long; 
Among  the  birds  of  Summer 

Are  none  who  carol  his  song. 


A  SCENE  OF  INFANCY. 

I  have  found  a  nest,  beloved, 
A  beautiful  swinging  nest ; 


4-  -4- 

266  LEAFLETS  FROM 


Stay,  while  I  peep  in  a  moment, 
At  the  hird  in  downy  rest. 

Art  waiting  ?  I  cannot  away 
For  this  nest  reveals  to  me 

My  title  to  untold  possessions, 
Through  blessed  maternity. 

Was  ever  Mother  so  happy  ? 

Was  ever  a  babe  so  fair? 
From  the  tips  of  her  dainty  feet 

To  her  crown  of  golden  hair? 
Sleeping — silken-fringed  curtains 

Droop  o'er  each  oval  cheek, 
Waking — through  depths  of  clear  a/ure 

Bright  glimpses  of  Heaven  break. 

The  glow  of  golden  October* 

Prefigures  rosy  and  warm 
Love's  mellow  Indian  Summer 

As  I  clasp  this  cherub  form  ; 
Clothe  her  in  delicate  raiment, 

Lull  her  to  sweet  repose  ; — 
She  is  as  fair  as  a  iily, 

She  is  as  fresh  as  a  rose. 

My  blossom!  No  bud  of  Flora 

Rivals  your  opening  charms, 
Yet  why  this  tremulous  shrinking 

As  hid  in  my  sheltering  arms, 
Swift  shadows  like  clouds  sweep  over 

While  tear-drops  gather  as  rain, 
And  the  sweet  lips'  sorrowful  quiver 

Tenderness  cannot  retain. 

*Birthday  October  20th. 


NATIVE    WOODS.  2<)7 

Earth-born,  therefore  subject  to  pain- 
Human,  exposed  to  sin — 

Anns  everlasting  and  loving 
From  harm  close  my  darling  in. 

Her  wonderful  three-fold  nature 
Ceaseless  mystery  covers, 

There's  something  baffles  possession, 
And  invisible  hovers 

In  unconscious  grace  of  movement, 

In  the  winsome  warbling  tone 
Which  never  knew    written    language, 

Which  is  neither  speech  nor  song. 
Ours— yet  unknown— undetermined 

Her  future — rocked  to  rest- 
Love's  white  veil  I  drop  with  a  prayer 

Lightly  o'er  my  swinging  nest. 


GIRLHOOD. 

A  ripple  of  girlish  laughter — 

Of  merry  voices  a  hum- 
Confused  elastic  footsteps, 

And  hither  from  school  they  come, 
A  half  dozen  blushing  lasses 

With  health  and  beauty  aglow, 
Which  of  the  blue-eyed  sisters 

Do  you  think  is  NELLIE  now? 

Can  you  trace  her  infant  promise 

In  her  full  and  open  brow? 
Can  you  see  the  rose  and  lily 

Blend  in  her  bloom  just  now? 
This  way,  my  daughter— here's  a  friend 

Who  loved  you  in  earlier  days, 


2(58  LEAFLETS   FROM 

Greet  her  as  dear  love'becoineth, 
She's  speaking  already  your  praise. 

Sit  by  me  while  we  look  backward, 

You  cannot  measure  at  all 
What  the  swift  years  have  been  doing 

She  is  fifteen  and  so  tall. 
Aye,  a  companion  and  helper, 

For  not  in  stature  alone 
Have  the  good  graces  been  lavish 

And  she  their  favored  one. 

Pardon  our  natural  feeling 

Of  tender  parental  pride, 
For  she  shares  our  mature  counsels 

Helpful  and  buoyant  beside. 
With  deft  hands  skillfully  fashions 

Little  devices  of  grace, 
These  ruffled  wools  on  the  mantel— 

This  airy  castle  in  place. 

Her  pure  transparent  complexion 

Symbols  her  innocence  well. 
Thought's  swift  expressions  betraying 

No  art  or  guile  to  conceal ; 
Questions  important  and  weighty 

She  has  considered  we  know — 
That  she  has  reached  wise  conclusions 

We  read  in  her  peaceful  brow. 

She's  pleased  with  tasteful  attire, 
And  treasures  beautiful  things, 

But  couples  a  happy  temper 
With  all  that  contentment  brings. 


NATIVE    WOODS.  269 


Quiet — affectionate— meek — 

I  fancy  a  year  ago 
Some  silent  mysterious  change 

In  her  heart  began  to  grow. 

She  had  been  hearing  the  story 

Oft  told  of  Jesus  so  mild, 
And  some  one  tenderly  asked  her 

If  she  would  not  be  His  child  ; 
She  is  reticent,  and  confession 

Not  easily  frames  itself  word — 
I  judge  her  daily  demeanor 

More  than  anything  I  have  heard. 

'Tis  pleasant  to  find  her  endowed 

With  intellect  keen  and  clear, 
And  shape  her  a  brilliant  future 

In  places  other  than  here; 
As  over  the  broad  thoroughfare 

With  modest  self-possessed  mein 
E'en  strangers  are  won  in  converse 

Of  what  she  has  thought  and  seen. 

She  is  faithful  to  the  fair  band 

In  week  day  and  Sabbath  class, 
Together  they  sit  and  study 

Clasping  each  other  they  pass, 
Merry,  sportive,  lithesome  maidens 

Chatting,  flitting  joyously 
Gathering  the  wayside  honey 

For  sweet  uses  by  and  by. 

The  home  coming  murtner  rises 
Day  fades  in  the  golden  West, 


270  LEAFLETS  FROM 

We  gather  its  fresh  surprises 

With  ourselves  into  Home's  loved  nest; 
Ere  to  our  separate  slumber 

Weary— we  trustfully  go 
Touch  the  keys  of  Music,  NELLIE, 

And  voice  their  silvery  flow. 


CLOSING  LIFE. 

NELLIE  is  drooping — lethargy 

Over  her  quick  senses  creeps, 
I'll  hasten  this  dainty  wrapper 

For  she  oft  grows  weary  and  sleeps. 
To-day  as  she  sat  softly  playing, 

A  favorite  plaintive  air 
Floatmg  like  far-away  music 

And  awed  me  with  a  vague  fear. 

Here  is  her  last  little  fancy — 

A  delicate  zephyr  mat— 
The  pattern  she  meant  to  improve 

I  see  she  has  raveled  that. 
A  fluffy  heap  on  the  table 

She  threw  it  carelessly  by 
Her  fingers  forget  their  wont  cunning, 

Let  it  unfinished  lie. 

*•*•*•»# 

What  augur  these  swift  changing  scenes? 

Uubidden — forbidden  they  come; 
What  dark  wing  of  mystery  broods 

Over  our  dear  happy  home  ? 
Backward  my  thought  strangely  flutters 

To  her  helpless  infancy, 


NATIVE    WOODS.  271 


Her  head  on  my  bosom  is  pillowed, 
Her  fond  love  embraces  me. 

I  "nselfish—  submis.sive--resigned, 

Her  sweet  and  tender  words  come 
Dropping  balm  on  my  aching  heart 

Under  this  great  sorrow  dumb  ; 
Just  now  a  quick  recognition 

Illumined  her  changing  face, 
But  alas!  she  has  fallen  asleep 

Unheeding  her  Father's  kiss. 

\V  istful — tearful— serious  class 

To  Sabbath  lesson  turning— 
This  hour  has  a  difficult  page 

For  unaided  human  learning; 
The  shortest  month  in  the  circle.* 

Compresses  a  lifelong  pain, 
Out  of  our  lives  we  have  given 

Our  NELLIE  to  God  again. 


REQUIEM. 
Make  room  in  your  secret  chambers 

Ye  roots  of  the  sleeping  flowers ! 
Our  dear  one  seeks  lowly  exit 

To  a  fairer  clime  than  ours ; 
White  lies  the  snow  o'er  the  valley, 

But  on  the  far  hill-top  this  mornt 
The  welcome  incoming  Sovereign 

The  right  royal  Spring  is  born. 

Sleep  sweetly,  beloved,  in  hope, 
As  sure  as  from  this  dull  clay 

*Died  February  23d.    fBurial  March  1st. 


272 


LEAFLETS   FROM 


Shall  visions  of  loveliness  rise, 
Is  your  resurrection  day; 

The  power  which  creates  and  renews 
The  wonderful  vistas  we  see, 

Purposes  deeper  and  higher 
Envelops  in  mystery. 

Blessed  lilies!  brave  lilies!  weave 

Your  living  forms  pure  as  snow 
Into  garlands  and  fragrant  pillows 

Around — above — and  below — 
Fit  emblems  of  love's  devotion — 

Love's  willing  sacrifice  prove, 
Faith  triumphing  o'er  the  mortal 

Reposes  in  infinite  love. 

I'AMKKIDQE,  JULY,  1879. 


